CHICAGO – The Cook County Circuit Court clerk is offering county citizens one last chance to reconcile delinquent court fees and fines before new taxation laws on overdue fines take effect in 2016.
Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County Dorothy Brown said the county is holding its inaugural Amnesty Week Oct. 5-9, 2015.
During the week, Brown’s Office is waiving overdue fees on all delinquent fines owed to the Circuit Court. Additionally, the Clerk’s Office is accepting delinquent payments during the extended hours of 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the Daley Center, all five suburban district locations, the criminal courthouse and its pay-by-phone services.
“This is a significant savings chance, especially now, because beginning in 2016, people who owe fines and fees to the Clerk’s Office will be subject to having their income tax refunds intercepted and will then have to pay their past-due fines to the Clerk of Court, along with additional state fees,” Brown said.
This is the first Amnesty Week in recent history, and the first under Brown’s administration.
“I learned about a similar amnesty program that was held in Florida earlier this year, and knew that it was a great idea,” Brown said.
Individuals also may qualify to get their driving licenses reinstated when they pay their overdue traffic fines in full.
The extended hours are only for paying delinquent payments. Customers may make payments in full or in part, by cash, check, money order or credit card.
“I encourage individuals who owe past-due fines and fees to the Clerk of Court to take advantage of Amnesty Week and save money,” Brown said.
To pay by phone, call (888) 497-8701, give the customer service representative provider ID No. 22530 and state that you are making an Amnesty payment.
For more information on the Clerk of Court Amnesty Week, visit www.cookcountyclerkofcourt.org or call (312) 603-5035.