These resources can help Illinois nonprofits assess and manage the legal risks associated with DEIA initiatives. It's advisable to consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with applicable laws and to address any specific concerns related to your organization's DEIA efforts. The National Council of Nonprofits offers a DEI Risk Assessment Checklist to guide organizations—especially those receiving federal funding—in managing these risks.
Answers to many common legal questions can be found online, but it is important to use a trusted, accurate website.
Illinois Legal Aid Online – Illinois Legal Aid Online is a comprehensive and freely accessible resource that provides answers to a wide array of common legal questions. It also offers guided assistance for completing certain legal forms online. Operated by a registered non-profit organization, its mission is to make the law more accessible and comprehensible to all Illinois residents.
FindLaw – FindLaw offers in-depth information on a broad spectrum of legal topics, specifically curated for the general public and individuals without formal legal training. Published by Thomson Reuters, a highly respected provider of legal information, the platform serves as a reliable source for understanding legal concepts and issues.
Legal Information Institute (LII) – Maintained by Cornell Law School, the Legal Information Institute provides extensive legal content, much of which consists of primary source materials. The site includes a free legal dictionary and encyclopedia, both of which can be valuable tools for independent legal research. Users should, however, be aware of the presence of advertisements throughout the platform.
Nonprofit Legal Assistance Organizations in Illinois
The following organizations provide legal assistance to individuals and organizations in Illinois:
Candid offers a growing digital collection of eBooks and audiobooks on social sector- and philanthropy-related topics, curated by Candid’s team of expert librarians. This free, public collection is available to anyone through Candid's OverDrive site and the Libby app*, and can be accessed remotely from any computer, smartphone, tablet, or e-reader.
A few of the eBooks available:
Disclaimer: The content and external links in this LibGuide are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or imply endorsement by the Forefront Library. The Library is not responsible for the accuracy, legality, or content of external sites. For legal guidance, consult a qualified attorney.
