IL SB3526

Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987 to establish fitness to stand trial standards specifically for minors, recognizing developmental differences between juveniles and adults in understanding proceedings and assisting in their own defense.

Defines unfitness as lacking sufficient ability to consult with an attorney or understand proceedings, which may result from mental illness, developmental disability, substance use disorder, chronological or relative immaturity, or child traumatic stress—no diagnosis required.

Requires fitness evaluations to be conducted by licensed clinical psychologists or psychiatrists with training in forensics, child development, and trauma, completed within 30 days in the least restrictive environment possible.

Establishes that the State bears the burden of proving fitness by preponderance of evidence for minors 14 and older, and by clear and convincing evidence for minors under age 14.

Creates the Juvenile Discharge Hearing Task Force to compare Illinois' juvenile fitness process with other states and recommend reforms, with a written report due to the General Assembly by July 1, 2027; task force provisions repeal January 1, 2028.