'People's Law School' draws a crowd

The opening session of a free legal public education program brought about 150 people to the College of Lake County last week.

The "People's Law School" presented by the Lake County Bar Association is a four-week overview of areas of the law most people come in contact with, explained in a language most people speak.

"We are very impressed with the response we received," LCBA President Bryan Winter said. "There is a lot of enthusiasm on the part of our members to share information about the legal system with the people of the county."

Not designed to turn anyone into a lawyer, the program aims to provide basic information on the nuts and bolts operation of the law, and how to navigate the process.

The session opened with Winter and Circuit Judge Raymond McKoski introducing the legal system, outlining the history of American law and the difference between state and federal courts.

Assistant State's Attorney Rod Drobinski gave a presentation on identity theft, explaining that the same technology that makes life easier makes it more perilous as well.

"As many as 10 million people a year are victims of identity theft," Drobinski said. "The average victim spends 175 hours over the course of two years to straighten out the damage."

Course materials handed out to each participant included brief descriptions of contract law and tips on how to avoid the pitfalls of consumer fraud.

Jim Gamble of Wadsworth said he signed up for the course because he has always been interested in the legal system.

"I thought it would be a good way to get answers to the questions I have about how things work," he said. "I have been forced into dealing with the law for family reasons; real estate, wills and similar things."

Future sessions, all to be held from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on Tuesdays at CLC's Grayslake campus, will cover criminal and traffic law, personal injury and family law and real estate and wills. Registration for the sessions is closed.

McKoski said the program was a way for members of the profession to live up to an obligation.

"Public understanding of the law is essential to maintaining confidence in the legal system," McKoski said. "Lawyers and judges have a responsibility to educate the public."