Experienced Representation Before Boards of Fire and Police Commissioners
Under Illinois law (65 ILCS 5/10-2.1-1 et seq.), all municipalities with a population of 5,000 or more are required to establish a Board of Fire and Police Commissioners. These boards play a critical role in overseeing the hiring, promotion, and discipline of sworn fire and police personnel. When disciplinary charges are brought against an officer or firefighter, the stakes are high — careers, reputations, and livelihoods are on the line.
At Griffin Williams McMahon & Walsh LLP, we provide experienced legal representation for both municipalities and individual officers and firefighters in proceedings before Boards of Fire and Police Commissioners throughout Illinois.
Role of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners has broad authority over sworn personnel, including the power to:
- Establish minimum qualifications for hiring police officers and firefighters
- Conduct eligibility and promotional examinations
- Appoint and promote sworn personnel
- Conduct hearings on written charges seeking the suspension, discipline, removal, or discharge of sworn officers and firefighters
- Adopt and enforce rules and regulations governing department personnel
Disciplinary Hearings
When a police chief or fire chief files written charges against a sworn member, the Board conducts a formal hearing to determine whether the charges are sustained and what discipline, if any, is appropriate. These hearings are quasi-judicial proceedings where both sides have the right to:
- Be represented by legal counsel
- Present evidence and call witnesses
- Cross-examine opposing witnesses
- Make opening and closing arguments
Potential outcomes of a disciplinary hearing can range from a finding of not guilty to suspension, demotion, or termination from the department. Given the serious consequences, effective legal representation is essential throughout the process.
How We Can Help
Griffin Williams McMahon & Walsh LLP represents clients on all sides of Fire and Police Commission proceedings, including:
- Representing police officers and firefighters facing disciplinary charges before the Board
- Representing municipalities and departments in prosecuting disciplinary matters
- Advising Boards of Fire and Police Commissioners on procedural and legal requirements
- Challenging or defending promotional and hiring decisions
- Handling appeals of Board decisions to the circuit court through administrative review
- Advising on compliance with the Illinois Municipal Code, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable rules and regulations
Appeals and Administrative Review
Decisions of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners may be appealed through administrative review in the circuit court. Our attorneys have experience handling these appeals, whether seeking to overturn an adverse decision or defending a Board's ruling on behalf of a municipality.
Whether you are a sworn officer facing charges, a municipality seeking to maintain discipline and accountability, or a Board needing legal guidance, Griffin Williams McMahon & Walsh LLP has the experience and knowledge to protect your interests. For more information, please contact us.