The Cook County Domestic Violence Division, under the leadership of Presiding Judge, Judith Rice, hosted a training on domestic violence and Karina’s Law. Judges from the centralized Domestic Violence Courthouse, also known as 555 W. Harrison, and the municipal districts attended this training, which served as a comprehensive refresher on foundational concepts of domestic violence and provided an in- depth overview of Karina’s Law.
Karina’s Law (became effective May 11, 2025. Karina’s Law allows courts to order the seizure of firearms and firearm parts that could be assembled to make firearms from a Respondent during an Emergency Order of Protection. It also allows someone seeking an order of protection to ask a judge to issue a search warrant allowing law enforcement to seize guns from their alleged abuser, after showing probable cause that the Respondent is an immediate threat to the petitioner. Karina’s Law also limits transfers of firearms to third parties.
Illinois Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Rochford delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the critical role judges play in handling domestic violence cases and issuing orders. Justice Rochford reminded her fellow judges of their unwavering commitment to public service and their supported membership in the Illinois judicial community. Justice Rochford serves as the Illinois Supreme Court liaison to the Supreme Court Committee on Domestic Violence.
Judge Jennifer Clifford of the 17th Judicial Circuit, and Chair of the Supreme Court Committee on Domestic Violence was the keynote speaker presenting on Trauma Informed Courts, Procedural Justice, Risk Assessments, and Karina’s Law.
Judges greatly appreciated receiving this necessary training enhancing their judicial skills.