Cook County's top judge has signed an order prohibiting ICE from making civil arrests of parties, witnesses, or potential witnesses at courthouses and surrounding areas to ensure access to justice without fear of arrest.

This order was prompted by incidents such as the arrest of a woman entering a domestic violence courthouse and increased ICE presence outside courts, which heightened fears among immigrants and legal advocates.

Since July, there have been at least a dozen arrests near courthouses reported by immigration advocates and the public defender's office, leading to calls for protective measures and legal action.

The decision reflects ongoing debates over immigration enforcement practices and the authority of local governments to restrict federal immigration activities.

Illinois political leaders, including Governor JB Pritzker and House Speaker Emanuel Welch, have condemned federal ICE actions, criticizing the use of force against protesters and vowing to pass resolutions and legislation to restrict federal patrols.

Pritzker specifically criticized ICE for using tear gas on peaceful protesters and suggested federal agents may have violated court orders banning such force.

Community efforts in Chicago have increased, with protests, monitoring ICE activity, and legal funding to support detained individuals, reflecting widespread opposition to federal immigration enforcement.

Protests continue across Chicago and nearby suburbs, including campaigns to remove fences at ICE facilities and raise awareness about legal rights.

The practice of ICE arrests at courthouses is part of a broader national trend, facing condemnation and legal challenges across the U.S., including lawsuits and legislative efforts to limit such enforcement tactics.

This local order aligns with the national criticism of courthouse immigration arrests, which have been challenged in courts and through legislation, including a notable lawsuit by New York in 2020.

The Department of Homeland Security defends courthouse arrests as necessary and constitutional, asserting there are no sanctuaries and that arresting lawbreakers where they are found is justified.

DHS also claims that such arrests are common sense, despite concerns from legal advocates about transparency, warrants, and community safety.

The court order aims to prevent ICE from conducting arrests within court premises, responding to increased incidents of agents refusing to identify themselves and using unmarked vehicles with weapons.