McHenry Co. Amnesty Week Offers Break on Past-Due Court Fines

WOODSTOCK, IL — McHenry County residents with past-due criminal and traffic fines will have another chance to settle their court debts without paying accumulated late fees and collection interest.

The McHenry County Circuit Clerk's Office will hold its fifth annual Amnesty Week Oct. 5-9. During the week, people with outstanding balances from criminal, traffic, DUI, ordinance or conservation violation cases can pay the original amount owed before their cases were sent to collections, according to a news release.

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The program does not apply to fines and costs that have already been paid or tax refunds that have been applied toward an outstanding balance. Since Amnesty Week began, the program has helped residents save a combined $38,752 in late fees and interest, while $50,684 in back fines has been paid to the court.

"Amnesty Week gives people the chance to get current with past-due court fines while getting late fees and collection interest forgiven," Circuit Clerk Melissa Keefe said. "We are excited every year to offer this program to give citizens the opportunity for a fresh start."

People can request a quote showing the amount they owe without fees and interest by emailing CircuitClerk@mchenrycountyil.gov or calling 815-334-4190.

Payments can be made online through the McHenry County Circuit Clerk's website, in person at the Circuit Clerk's Office from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., by phone or by mail. The office is located at 2200 N. Seminary Ave. in Woodstock.