Click here for general information regarding Pro Se Litigants. 

Individuals who make the serious decision to represent themselves are referred to by the Court as pro se litigants.  If you are a pro se litigant with a case in this district, the District Court Self-Help Assistance Program may be able to provide you with assistance regarding your case. The help desk attorney operates by appointment only. Appointments are made at the Clerk’s Office Intake Desk on the 20th floor or by calling 312-435-5691.

Use of the help desk attorney is not a substitute for having a personal attorney, however.  You should seriously consider trying to obtain professional legal assistance.  Below are lists of organizations that may be able to offer you free or low-cost legal assistance or a referral to an attorney if you can afford to pay for legal services: 

Free or low-cost legal services 

Referral Services

Please also refer to the following links for additional resources and information:

Filing a Civil Case Without An Attorney: A Guide For The Pro Se Litigant 

Local Rule 56.2 - Notice to Pro Se Litigants Opposing Summary Judgment

The following links provide information that may be useful for appointed attorneys:

Title VII and Section 1981: A Guide for Appointed Attorneys in the Northern District of Illinois 

The Americans With Disabilities Act An Age Discrimination In Employment Act: A Guide for Appointed Attorneys in the Northern District of Illinois