To better identify and understand where legal deserts exist, the ARDC is introducing updated questions for the 2026 registration cycle. These new questions are designed to capture more accurate data about the legal profession in Illinois and illuminate hidden gaps in access to justice across the state. The ARDC’s effort is part of a broader push by the Illinois Supreme Court and justice system stakeholders to strengthen the legal infrastructure in underserved communities. Learn more 

The ARDC is closed on Monday, October 13, 2025, in observance of Columbus Day.

Illinois attorneys can now register for the upcoming 2026 registration year on the ARDC registration portal. Please select 'Register Online Today!' During the registration process, lawyers can submit status change requests that will take effect on January 1, 2026, if all requirements are met. For immediate status change requests or to complete the current year (2025) registration requirements, please contact the registration department at registration@iardc.org.

The ARDC is pleased to announce a new website feature: “Ethics Inquiry Question of the Month.”  This feature will highlight an interesting question posed to the ARDC that month through the ARDC’s Ethics Inquiry Program, which is now in its 30^th year of assisting lawyers and members of the public with general questions about lawyers’ professional responsibilities.  ARDC Rules 601 through 606 contain information about the Ethics Inquiry Program. 

 The Ethics Inquiry Program cannot and does not provide legal advice to callers.  ARDC attorneys help callers with research assistance so callers can reach their own informed conclusions and guide their conduct. Read more.

Submitted to the Illinois Supreme Court on April 22, 2025, this detailed report offers a wealth of information about the legal profession, regulatory actions, and key advancements within our legal community. Read more. 

The ARDC is pleased to announce that the Illinois Supreme Court has approved the ARDC’s new strategic plan, which includes a revised mission statement, its vision statement, and its set of organizational values. The strategic plan reflects the ARDC’s efforts to evolve as an organization in these dynamic times – so as to remain a vital resource for both lawyers and the public. It outlines a path forward that is grounded in three key areas of focus: evolving and enhancing the ARDC’s programs, services, and reputation; elevating confidence in the legal profession; and building an innovative and adaptive organization.  

The ARDC’s new mission statement is: “The ARDC preserves and advances the integrity of the legal profession through attorney registration and education, public outreach, restorative services, and, when necessary, attorney discipline.” This revised mission shifts the ARDC’s focus from primarily discipline to a more balanced approach designed to assist lawyers in practicing more effectively and ethically, while still protecting the public, and to restorative justice efforts.  

Complementing the new mission statement is the ARDC’s vision statement: “To shape a profession where all lawyers act ethically and with integrity.” The ARDC is committed to fostering a legal profession that is trusted, ethical, and dedicated to serving the public.  

The ARDC is implementing four core values to guide its work: accountability, empathy, open-mindedness, and pioneering excellence. These are the mindsets that the ARDC believes are essential to achieving its mission and vision.  

You can find the full strategic plan here.