Cook County contains the world’s largest consolidated court system and this nation’s largest jail. The Cook County Judicial Circuit employs judges who hear civil and criminal cases for the entire county, including Chicago. The Sheriff Department provides safety and security for un-incorporated suburban communities, the jail, and the circuit court system.

The Cook County Circuit Court includes more than two dozen agencies operating under the direction of three offices: the State’s Attorney, the Chief Judge and the Clerk of the Circuit Court. Four other agencies related to the Court operate under the direction of non-elected officials: the Public Defender, Supportive Services, the Law Library, and the Public Administrator. Additionally, the Sheriff oversees the operation of the Court Services Division, which is responsible for the provision of courtroom security personnel and the Judicial Advisory Council helps coordinate planning for public safety. These agencies all work together to ensure the effective and efficient administration of justice in Cook County.

The county also operates a juvenile temporary detention center.

The Circuit Court of Cook County operates a Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Program designed to help families stay in their homes or exit with some degree of stability.

Important Phone Numbers