Law Department

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Frequently Asked Questions

Note: As legal counsel to the City of Evanston, the Law Department is prohibited from providing legal representation or legal advice to members of the public. The information below is not intended as legal advice. You should always consult an attorney of your choice for actual guidance.

How do I file a claim with the City of Evanston?

We cannot formally advise anyone regarding the procedure of making a claim against the City of Evanston. However, you may click the link below to submit information regarding your claim within 45 days from the date of the incident. Please be advised due to statute of limitations, your claim will be automatically denied if it is submitted over ONE year from the date of incident:

https://arts.formstack.com/forms/liability_claims

Does the Law Department advise private citizens on legal matters?

No. As legal counsel to the City of Evanston, the Law Department is prohibited from providing legal representation or legal advice to members of the public. Therefore, if you have a private dispute, the Law Department cannot advise you how to proceed. If you are seeking legal services, you may wish to contact the following agencies:

CARPLS Legal Aid
17 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: (312)738-9200
Website: www.carpls.org

Center for Disability and Elder Law
205 West Randolph Street, Suite 1610
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312)376-1880
Website: www.cdelaw.org

Chicago Volunteer Legal Services
33 North Dearborn Street, Suite 400
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: (312)332-1624
Website: www.cvls.org

James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy
1123 Emerson Street
Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (847)492-1410

Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago
120 South LaSalle Street, Suite 900
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: (312)341-1070
Website: www.lafchicago.org

Open Communities
614 Lincoln Avenue
Winnetka, IL 60093
Phone: (847)501-5760
Website: www.open-communities.org

Where can I get a copy of the Evanston City Code?

The City Code may be viewed online here or at the Office of the City Clerk, 909 Davis Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201.

How can I get an interpretation of a City Ordinance?

The Law Department is prohibited from giving legal advice, including interpretations of City Ordinances, to persons other than City officials, boards, commissions and committees.

I’m interested in an internship; how can I get more information?

For more information regarding City of Evanston Law Department internships, click here.

I’m interested in employment with the Law Department; how can I get more information?

All inquiries regarding employment with the City of Evanston are directed to the City’s Human Resources page.