HB5251

Illinois HB5251 allows defendants in petty offenses to waive their right to a jury trial and request a bench trial through mail or electronic.

HB5251 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 to allow defendants accused of petty offenses to waive their right to a jury trial and request a bench trial. This waiver can be submitted by mail or electronically through an approved online system. The waiver request must include specific personal information from the defendant. The bill specifies that this waiver does not apply to cases involving unpaid balances, restitution, community service, court-ordered programs, conditions reserving jurisdiction, or mandatory court appearances.