Bridging Kane County Courts to the Community: 14-Part Video Educational Series Now Live
Ellen Schmid 6/25/2026 9:33AM
The Kane County Court System (16th Judicial Circuit, Illinois) has partnered with local marketing partner It's Me, Marketing to create a friendly, easy-to-watch video series in response to Illinois Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Rochford's Bridging the Courthouse and the Community initiative with the Illinois Judges' Association.
Launched officially on May 26,
Bridging Kane County Courts to the Community is a 14‑video series designed to help residents better understand how the court system operates and how to access its essential services. The series debuted with Illinois Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Rochford, Chief Judge Robert Villa, and other community leaders introducing the project to local mayors, library directors, and justice partners.
The 14-video playlist includes these topics:
- The Role of the Kane County, IL Court System: Illinois Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Rochford and 16th Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Robert Villa discuss the Kane County Court System — and what it truly means to serve the public.
- What to Know Before Going to Court in Kane County: From when to arrive, what to bring, how to dress, and how to prepare for in person or Zoom court, this guide helps you feel confident and ready for your hearing.
- Kane County Law Library & Self Help Legal Center: Open to All: Located on the second floor of the Kane County Judicial Center, the Kane County Law Library and Self-Help Legal Center offers free legal services and real people who are willing and eager to assist you.
- How to Find Your Court Date and Courtroom: Need to find your court date, time, or courtroom? In this video, you'll learn the easiest ways to look up your court information before you arrive — whether you're at home, or at one of our six courthouses.
- Kane County Traffic Court: What to Do if Your Child Gets a Traffic Ticket: In this video, a Kane County judge walks parents through exactly what to do after your child receives a traffic ticket.
- Kane County Traffic Court: Pleading Not Guilty to Your Ticket: A Kane County judge explains what to do if you want to challenge a traffic citation. From mailing in a not‑guilty plea to appearing in court, either in person or on Zoom, you'll learn what to expect and how to prepare.
- Kane County Traffic Court: Pleading Guilty to Your Ticket: This video addresses how traffic ticket payments work when you choose to resolve your citation by entering a guilty plea.
- Kane County Traffic Court: Missing Your Court Date: This video explains what can occur if you do not appear for your scheduled traffic court hearing.
- Serving as a Juror in Kane County: A Kane County judge informs on what it means to serve as a juror in the 16th Judicial Circuit.
- Electronic Filing (eFiling) Court Documents in Kane County: Here's what you need to know about e-filing. E-filing, or electronic filing, is now the standard way to submit court documents in Illinois civil cases.
- Getting Married in a Kane County Courthouse: Why You Should: A Kane County judge breaks down everything you need to know about getting married at the 16th Judicial Circuit Court.
- Getting Married in a Kane County Courthouse: Marriage License, Scheduling, Location: Here's how to get started with a courthouse wedding in Kane County. Before you say, "I do," there are a few simple steps to take care of first.
- Getting Married in a Kane County: Your Wedding Day and Beyond: Your wedding day is here and here's exactly what to expect at your Kane County Courthouse ceremony.
- Getting Married at a Kane County Courthouse: Couple Testimonial: Hear from a real couple who said "I do" at the Kane County Courthouse.
A Special Message to Kane County Community Partners
This video series plays a crucial role in increasing access by removing barriers for residents who may find court processes confusing. By openly explaining procedures and available resources, the series strengthens trust and transparency within the community. The hope is that well-informed residents will be able to navigate the justice system more effectively, reducing missed appearances, confusion, and delays.
If you are a community partner such as a library, municipal site, or a local service organization, we encourage you to share this playlist, making these resources available where residents already seek help.
How You Can Get Involved
You can help by adding the playlist to your Community Resources, Legal Help/Court Information, Public Services, or Local Government Links page. Sharing the videos with staff, volunteers, and residents will help broaden their reach and impact.
Where to Access the Video Playlist
16th Circuit website: https://www.illinois16thjudicialcircuit.org/
Copy the URL below and paste it into your web browser:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlVSsh8uEsrY3IfAUmdbAOGqEr7xMWEh7
Scan the QR code:
For more information on the series, contact Ellen Schmid, Judicial Communications Manager: SchmidEllen@16thCircuit.IllinoisCourts.gov.
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