Know Your Rights: How to Revoke or Reduce Court Fines in Illinois
In Illinois, the law demands that a court consider your ability to pay any fine before it is handed down. But life can change. If you lose your job, face illness, take on new family responsibilities, or suffer other hardships, you do not have to stay bound by fines you cannot pay.
Under Illinois law, 730 ILCS 5/5-9-2, you have the right to ask the court to revoke unpaid fines or change your payment plan. File what is called a Motion to Revoke Fines Pursuant to 730 ILCS 5/5-9-2 in your local circuit court. In that motion, you must explain the reasons why you can no longer pay. These reasons may include:
- reduced income or job loss
- changes in your family, like marriage, divorce, or children
- serious personal or family illness
- any new burden that makes payment impossible
If the court refuses to help you, do not give up. You have the right to appeal, and if you cannot afford a lawyer, the court should appoint the Office of the State Appellate Defender to stand with you.
No man, woman, or child should be crushed under the weight of fines that justice itself says they cannot pay. Stand up, know your rights, and act boldly to protect your family and your future.
By Corey Van Dickerson Sr.
👉 Learn more from the Office of the State Appellate Defender
