ILLINOIS LEGAL NEWS & VIDEOS

Attorney Heiderscheidt Joins Chicago Bar Association as Committee Chair of Immigration and Nationality Law

Attorney Heiderscheidt is thrilled to announce his new role as Committee Chair of the Immigration and Nationality Law Committee within the prestigious Chicago Bar Association (CBA). This esteemed position underscores his unwavering commitment to immigration law and his dedication to fostering a robust legal community in Chicago.

With years of experience advocating for individuals and families navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law, Attorney Heiderscheidt has established himself as a trusted and compassionate legal professional. His practice spans a wide array of immigration issues, including asylum applications, family-based visas, employment authorization documents (EADs), Temporary Protected Status (TPS) filings, and representation at EOIR master calendar hearings. His deep understanding of these intricate processes uniquely qualifies him to lead the committee in addressing the evolving challenges within this area of law.

The Mission of the Immigration and Nationality Law Committee

The CBA’s Immigration and Nationality Law Committee is a vital resource for attorneys, policymakers, and the public. The committee provides:

• Educational Programs: Offering seminars, workshops, and CLEs to ensure members remain informed about changes in immigration policies and procedures.
• Advocacy: Engaging with lawmakers and other stakeholders to promote fair and effective immigration policies.
• Networking Opportunities: Connecting professionals across the legal field to collaborate on cases and share best practices.
• Community Outreach: Raising awareness about immigration rights and providing pro bono opportunities to assist underserved populations.

As the new Chair, Attorney Heiderscheidt aims to build on the committee’s strong foundation and introduce initiatives that address the most pressing concerns in immigration law today.

About the Chicago Bar Association

Founded in 1874, the Chicago Bar Association is one of the oldest and most respected legal organizations in the country. It provides support, resources, and advocacy for its members while promoting the fair administration of justice. With over 18,000 members, the CBA is a hub for legal professionals committed to excellence and community service.

Attorney Heiderscheidt’s new role marks an exciting chapter in his career and for the Chicago Bar Association’s Immigration and Nationality Law Committee. His leadership will undoubtedly contribute to advancing the field of immigration law and supporting the legal community in Chicago and beyond.

 Attorney Heiderscheidt Attends Next ICE Director Homan’s Chicago Speeches on Immigration Policy Tom Homan

President-elect Trump’s pick to lead ICE beginning in 2025, spoke to several groups of supporters at different stops in the Chicago-land area Monday. Attorney Heiderscheidt attended both speeches. Homan repeated oft-used mantras about separating mixed-status families and deporting “illegal” criminal aliens. Homan stated that TPS for Venezuelans likely would be rescinded and called into question US asylum laws, alleging that 90% of claims result in a removal order rather than a grant of asylum or refugee status. “It wasn’t unexpected to hear some of these policy statements, but there were also glimmers of hope for some families,” John Heiderscheidt, Owner and Managing Attorney of Subscription Lawyer said, “Homan denied having the appetite to deploy military personnel to accomplish mass deportations. He also denied that immigration courts would be closed, leaving the door open for some due process rights, at least for non-criminals.” The incoming Presidential administration continues to make major changes in immigration law a top priority. If you or a loved one has questions about your rights or an immigrant in the United States, contact us today.

Some Immigrants May Benefit from New Attorney General Wrongful Conviction Unit

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has launched a statewide Conviction Integrity Unit (CIU) to address wrongful convictions and support county prosecutors in their efforts to investigate credible claims of innocence. This new initiative is particularly crucial for counties like Kane, where State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser has struggled to address wrongful convictions due to limited resources. Raoul’s statewide CIU, funded by the Attorney General’s office and a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, aims to fill these gaps by providing centralized support to counties that lack the means for a dedicated unit.

The CIU will primarily review cases involving forcible felonies, where new evidence might exonerate individuals convicted in Illinois state courts. This unit holds particular significance for immigrants, who often face heightened consequences from wrongful convictions, such as deportation or impacts on immigration status. By revisiting cases with credible evidence, the CIU not only seeks to prevent wrongful imprisonment but also to protect immigrant communities from the unjust and life-altering effects of a conviction error.

Applications are available in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for incarcerated individuals across Illinois, including immigrant communities. The CIU’s collaboration with local state’s attorneys’ offices will help safeguard the rights of immigrants and promote trust and accountability within the justice system.

By providing both financial support and legal resources to investigate wrongful convictions, Illinois’s CIU reinforces the state’s commitment to a fairer, more inclusive criminal justice system that serves all residents equitably.

A Day Downtown: DUI Cases and EOIR Hearings

DUI Case

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) case can be complex, with serious consequences ranging from fines and license suspension to jail time. Every detail matters, from the legality of the traffic stop to the administration of sobriety tests. In this particular case, the court reviewed the evidence, and we navigated the various legal hurdles to ensure the best possible outcome for the client. DUI charges can have a significant impact on your life, so it’s important to have experienced legal representation to guide you through the process.

EOIR Master Calendar Hearings

In addition to the DUI case, I spent part of the day in two EOIR master calendar hearings. These hearings are the initial stages in removal proceedings, where the judge sets the tone for the case and determines next steps. It’s crucial for non-citizens facing immigration issues to have representation in these hearings, as the outcome can drastically affect their ability to stay in the United States.

If you or someone you know is an immigrant with questions about your legal status or if you’re facing removal proceedings, it’s important to understand your rights and the legal process ahead. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a qualified immigration attorney.

Reach Out Today

Legal matters can be overwhelming, whether you’re dealing with a DUI charge or immigration proceedings. If you are navigating the complexities of your legal status in the United States or facing charges like DUI, we are here to help. Call today for a consultation, and let’s work together to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

If you need legal guidance or have questions about your immigration status, please call today! We are here to provide the support and answers you need to move forward with confidence.

Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. Endorses Bob Fioretti for Cook County State’s Attorney

The recent endorsement of Republican Bob Fioretti for Cook County State’s Attorney by civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. has sparked significant political debate in Cook County. Traditionally a strong supporter of Democratic candidates, Jackson’s decision to back Fioretti marks a significant departure and emphasizes the candidate’s civil rights record and history of community advocacy.

Jackson praised Fioretti as someone who has been a “champion” for the community through his roles as an alderman, civil rights lawyer, and advocate for the wrongfully convicted. He emphasized that his endorsement is not about party loyalty but rather choosing the right individual for the community, citing Fioretti’s commitment to “fairness, equality, and diversity”.

The endorsement has heightened scrutiny on Fioretti’s opponent, Eileen O’Neill Burke, a retired Illinois Appellate Court justice. Burke has been criticized for her handling of a racially charged case from the 1990s in which she prosecuted an 11-year-old African-American boy for murder, using what was later determined to be a coerced confession. This incident has been highlighted as disqualifying by Jackson, who cited it as evidence of racial bias.

The endorsement is also notable as it echoes some of the criticism Burke faced during the Democratic primary, where other prominent black Democratic leaders expressed concerns about her record. The race between Fioretti and Burke has become one of the more contentious local elections, with Jackson’s support potentially swaying voters in a predominantly Democratic county.

Fioretti, who has positioned himself as a centrist Republican, emphasized his commitment to law and order while respecting civil rights. His campaign is focused on building a “centrist movement” aimed at safer communities and a more just legal system.

Chicago’s Gun Violence in 2024: A City in Crisis

Gun violence continues to plague Chicago, with alarming statistics emerging in 2024. The city, often known for its rich cultural and historical significance, is struggling with increasing incidents of shootings. Many neighborhoods are caught in the crossfire, with the causes ranging from gang conflicts, drug-related crimes, to systemic socio-economic issues like poverty and lack of access to education.

The local government and community leaders are working tirelessly to address these problems, with initiatives focused on policing reform, community outreach programs, and investing in youth services. Yet, the challenge remains significant. Weekly updates track the escalating violence, revealing the harrowing reality many Chicagoans face daily.

Families in the most affected areas are calling for immediate action, from better gun control laws to more mental health resources. Community organizations are stepping up, providing safe spaces and educational opportunities, but without robust policy changes and better enforcement, the cycle of violence may persist.

Public figures, such as Mayor Brandon Johnson, are pushing for comprehensive solutions. However, balancing the safety of citizens with ensuring civil liberties remains a delicate act.

Chicago’s battle with gun violence isn’t just a local issue—it reflects broader national debates on gun control, police reform, and community-led safety measures. As we continue to track these developments, one thing is clear: ending gun violence in Chicago will require cooperation from every sector of society.

Attorney John Heiderscheidt Criticizes the Decision to Let ShotSpotter’s Contract Lapse

“It was a foolish decision to abandon Shotspotter technology, especially considering the Mayor is only now putting out an RFI to replace the technology,” said Attorney John Heiderscheidt of Subscription Lawyer. “His criticisms of the technology seem duplicitous and contradictory: if the technology is inherently bad because of surveillance, there’s no need for a replacement technology. If a replacement technology is necessary, the contract with Shotspotter should not have ended without an alternative place. This wrong decision will cost innocent victims their lives. Period.”

Attorney Heiderscheidt continued on, “The Mayor’s comparison of Shotspotter to a wasteful, walkie-talkie on a stick was the latest demonstration that he is completely unfit for the office he holds. The decision has led to near universal criticism in Chicago’s political circles. If the technology was good enough to keep party elites safe during the DNC, it is certainly good enough for all communities of Chicago. Day in and day out, this Mayor demonstrates total indifference to the well-being of regular, working-class Chicagoans and their families. Change cannot come to Chicago fast enough.” 

Data on Shotspotter can be found here: https://justicetechlab.org/shotspotter-data/