Northern District of Illinois

Welcome Teachers!

The United States District Court of the Northern District of Illinois appreciates your interest in learning about the judicial branch and welcomes you to visit us. We will provide you with valuable information and important resources to take back to your students and colleagues.

Our workshops will offer live courtroom observations, a session with a U.S. District Court Judge and other legal professionals, and a courthouse tour. Questions will be encouraged throughout the workshop.

Please see the following information below, which include teacher registration form, educational materials, planning a field trip for your students and additional resources to help you prepare for your visit.

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions For the Teacher/Institutions Visit Program

Who may participate in the Teacher/Institutions Visit Program?

The Teacher/Institution Visit Program is designed for teachers (any grade) of any learning institutions.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. Visits are offered free of charge.

Do you arrange transportation?

No. However the courthouse is located near public transportation and public parking facilities.

Do you arrange for lunch or snacks?

No. Lunch or snack arrangements should be coordinated by the individual and can take place before or after the scheduled visit. The on-site cafeteria contact is Fresh Season’s Café @ dirksenmanager@taher.com. Click here for more information.

How long is a Courthouse Visit?

The program is typically 3 hours long. Agendas may be modified based on the groups interests and needs.

What activities are included in the Teacher/Institutions Visit Program?

The teacher/institution visit to the courthouse is geared towards teachers of any institution that is interested in learning about the federal judiciary court system. Our workshops will offer live courtroom observations, a session with a U.S. District Court Judge and other legal professionals, and a courthouse tour.

A valid photo ID is required to enter the building.

Items Not Allowed in Courthouses.

Contraband consists of those items which an individual may legally possess, but are prohibited from being brought into a courthouse. These items include, but are not limited to, the following:

Knives, Razor Blades, Scissors, Powders, Liquids, Aerosol Spray Cans, Markers, Pepper Spray, Mace
Glass Items
Tools, Nails or Screws Etc.
Cameras, Radios, Tape Recorders
Rolled Coins, Handcuff Keys, Pad Locks, Heavy Chain Items, Heavy Metallic Belts, Knitting Needles, Corkscrews
And any other items that Court Services Department (C.S.D.) members feel will compromise the security or integrity of courthouse and courtroom proceeding

Welcome Teachers!

Additional Resources

Resources List

National Resources

Other Valuable Resources