Kim Foxx's office says it will no longer object to waiving court fees for low-income defendants

CHICAGO - The Cook County state’s attorney’s office announced Tuesday it will no longer object to waiving court fees for low-income defendants, a move it said was aimed at reducing racial disparities in the criminal justice system.

"One of the tragedies of the criminal justice system is that a disproportionate amount of its financing is shouldered by people of color and those living in poverty," State’s Attorney Kim Foxx said in a statement. "Rather than end the cycles of racial disparities and criminalization, fees and fines perpetuate them."

Fines and fees are used to cover court expenses.

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The office said the new policy was in line with other measures it has taken, including not prosecuting cases involving driving with a suspended license or possessing small amounts of narcotics and expunging cannabis convictions.

"These financial burdens too often exacerbate poverty," First Assistant State’s Attorney Risa Lanier said in a statement.