top of page
3rdappellatecourthouse.jpeg

The Third Appellate Court

The 3rd Appellate Court of Illinois is one of five appellate districts in the state. It hears appeals from Circuit Courts in 7 counties: Bureau, DuPage, Grundy, Iroquois, Kankakee, LaSalle and Will. The Court is located in Ottawa.

​

The Appellate Court is composed of seven Justices who are elected to ten-year terms.  Cases are heard by an assigned panel of three Justices who work together to reach a decision.

​

The court hears appeals from a variety of cases, including criminal cases, civil cases, and juvenile cases, cases that can affect our daily lives. The court also hears appeals from decisions of administrative agencies. For the majority of trial cases, the Appellate Court is the final step in the judicial decision process. While it is possible for cases to continue on to the Illinois Supreme Court, very few are selected to be heard.

 

Why is it Important that I Vote?

​

  • Appellate Justices are important because they make decisions that affect our daily lives. They decide whether or not to uphold lower court decisions, and their rulings can have a major impact on everything from criminal justice to environmental protection.

  • It is important to vote for Appellate Justices who are qualified and fair, and who will uphold the rule of law.

  • Appellate Justices can be the last line of defense for the rights of individuals. When a lower court makes a decision that is unfair or unjust, the Appellate Court can overturn that decision and protect the rights of the individual.

  • Appellate Justices are responsible for upholding the rule of law. They must ensure that the laws of the land are applied fairly and consistently, and that no one is above the law.

  • If you are eligible to vote, please make sure to register to vote and to vote in the next appellate judicial election. Your vote is important and can make a difference.

bottom of page