Lawrence County Circuit Court has been awarded a technology grant in the amount of $54,825.98 from the Technology Modernization Funding Program offered by the Illinois Supreme Court and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts. Lawrence County Resident Judge Robert Hopkins and Circuit Clerk Cheryl Winkles sought the funding made available to county courts throughout Illinois by securing bids for technology upgrades and drafting the grant proposal that has been approved. Video and audio upgrades including new computers, a high-speed server, large video monitor for trial use, and new security equipment and cameras are just some of the many enhancements to the court system made possible by the grant.
Second Circuit Chief Judge Melissa Morgan stressed the importance of this award stating, “These upgrades to the Lawrence County Circuit Court will provide increased access to individuals appearing remotely and will improve the efficiency of the day-to-day administration of justice. The additional security features will also help protect staff, attorneys, and all that elect to visit the Court in person. Judge Hopkins and Circuit Clerk Winkles have been instrumental in obtaining these funds and the Second Circuit applauds their initiative and hard work throughout this process. We also greatly appreciate the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts and the Illinois Supreme Court for their continued leadership and support, without which, none of this would be possible.”
