Gov. Quinn Signs Law Providing Veterans With Legal Help

Illinois veterans and service members can qualify for free legal help under a new law pushed by Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Kilbride.

Gov. Pat Quinn signed legislation Thursday that allows the state's high court to establish a pilot program setting up a legal hotline and access to attorneys. The money for the program will come from fees in civil cases. It'll be collected by clerks of circuit court and put into a so-called Access to Justice Fund.

Quinn says service members have faced obstacles in the line of duty and shouldn't have to face them at home.

The law will also set up a panel to take a look at legal fees for criminal defendants. The law takes effect immediately.