15th Judicial Circuit Court, Carroll County, Illinois
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Courtesy copies
- Upon request
Adjournments
- Matters scheduled to be returnable on a listed legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
- Matters scheduled to be heard on a listed legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
- A representative seeking an extension or less frequent accountings must petition with reasons, and an granted extension must specify a definite date for the next accounting.
- +21 more
Request must include
- A trial-continuance motion and written notice to attorneys and SRLs of record are due at least seven days before trial, and the motion must be set for hearing at least four days before trial.
- A trial-continuance motion must comply with the cited authorities, be filed and noticed at least seven days before trial, and be set for hearing at least four days before trial.
- An agreed bench-trial continuance requires good cause and, when practicable, must be heard at least four days before trial.
Communication
Phone
Clerk
Document Format Requirements39 rules
A document exceeding the Vendor-set maximum file size must be divided into multiple documents, each below the maximum.
Court's wording
The maximum file size allowable is as determined by a Vendor’s program. If a document exceeds the maximum size allowed, the Filer must divide the document into appropriately sized parts and file multiple documents, each under the maximum file size.
Documents must use at least 12-point body text, 8½-by-11-inch pages, margins of at least one inch, and leave the first page’s top-right 2-by-2-inch corner blank.
- Font size
- At least 12 points
- Margins
- At least 1 inch
- Paper size
- Letter
Court's wording
The size of the type in the body of the text must be no less than 12-point font. The size of the pages must be 8 ½ by 11 inches. The margins on each side of the page must be a minimum of 1 inch. The top right 2-inch by 2-inch corner of the first page of each pleading must be left blank for the Clerk’s stamp.
All electronically filed documents must be in PDF format.
- File type
Filers shall take all reasonable steps to ensure E-documents are unalterable by the Vendor and can be printed with the same content and format as if printed from the authoring program.
The required arrest-warrant warning in covered hearing notices must appear in bold type or be underlined.
Court's wording
Notices of hearings to discover assets, petitions for adjudication of contempt, and any other hearing during which a warrant of arrest may issue for a party’s failure to appear after receipt of notice shall, in addition to the time, date, and place of hearing, include the following words in bold type or underlined: “Your failure to appear at this hearing may result in the issuance of a warrant for your arrest.”
The financial affidavit form shall comply with the standardized, statewide form available at the Illinois Supreme Court website.
A petition to withdraw ward’s funds must be presented in person by the specified person, unless the Court waives personal presentation.
Court's wording
A petition to withdraw funds deposited or invested, as provided in section 24-21 of the Act or pursuant to this Rule shall be presented in person by the parent, spouse, person standing in loco parentis, or person having custody of the ward, unless the Court waives personal presentation.
No more than one audio system, with designated personnel to operate it, shall be permitted.
No more than one livestream of court proceedings, with designated personnel to operate it, shall be permitted.
It is the media coordinator's responsibility to set up pooling arrangements that follow the judge's order for the proceeding.
No more than two news media representatives may perform video recording during a court proceeding.
No auxiliary lighting of any kind shall be used in the courtroom.
Formatting
- •No auxiliary lighting of any kind may be used in the courtroom
Microphones, wiring, and audio recording equipment shall be of adequate technical quality to prevent interference with courtroom amplification systems or electronic recording systems.
No more than two news media representatives may take photos during a court proceeding.
Microphones for use of counsel and judges shall be equipped with power switches.
Nor shall any light or other display be detectable to participants to indicate when any equipment is in operation.
Courtroom media equipment must operate quietly and unobtrusively; personnel may be required to demonstrate compliance, and noncompliant equipment may be excluded.
Formatting
- •Equipment may be excluded from the courtroom for failure to demonstrate compliance
Court's wording
(a) Equipment specifications. All equipment used by media personnel in the courtroom during court proceedings must operate quietly and without drawing attention, so as not to disrupt or distract from the proceedings. Media personnel may be required to demonstrate compliance with these requirements. Failure to do so may result in the exclusion of the equipment from the courtroom.
News media shall not move about the courtroom while proceedings are in session, nor shall they engage in any movement attracting undue attention.
Equipment shall not be stored in the courthouse without permission.
Equipment, operating personnel, and coverage must remain in areas designated by authorized court personnel, and those areas must provide reasonable access to the proceedings.
Formatting
- •Designated areas must provide reasonable access to the proceedings being covered
Court's wording
Equipment and operating personnel shall be in, and coverage of the proceedings shall take place from, an area(s) within the courtroom designated by the judge, court media liaison, or other authorized court personnel. The area(s) designated shall provide reasonable access to the proceedings to be covered.
Equipment shall be operated from a fixed position.
The top right 2-inch by 2-inch corner of the first page of each pleading must be left blank for the Clerk’s stamp.
The attorney or SRL preparing the order shall place his or her name, address, and telephone number at the lower left portion of the last page of the order.
All electronically filed documents must be in PDF format.
- File type
The size of the pages must be 8 ½ by 11 inches.
- Paper size
- Letter
The size of the type in the body of the text must be no less than 12-point font.
- Font size
- At least 12 points
The margins on each side of the page must be a minimum of 1 inch.
- Margins
- At least 1 inch
If a document exceeds the Vendor’s file-size limit, the Filer must split it into multiple documents that each meet the limit.
Court's wording
The maximum file size allowable is as determined by a Vendor’s program. If a document exceeds the maximum size allowed, the Filer must divide the document into appropriately sized parts and file multiple documents, each under the maximum file size.
The financial affidavit form shall comply with the standardized, statewide form available at the Illinois Supreme Court website.
All Zoom users must have their legal name as their username before entering the Zoom waiting room or they will not be admitted.
All E-documents shall, to the extent practicable, be formatted in accordance with the applicable Supreme Court Rules and these Rules governing the formatting of paper pleadings.
The required warning in the hearing notice must be in bold type or underlined.
Court's wording
The notice shall include, in addition to the time, date, and place of hearing, the following words in bold type or underlined: “Your failure to appear at this hearing may result in the issuance of a warrant for your arrest.”
The required warning in the hearing notice must be in bold type or underlined.
Court's wording
A notice of the hearing on a rule to show cause shall include, in addition to the time, date, and place of hearing, the following words in bold type or underlined: “Your failure to appear at this hearing may result in the issuance of a warrant for your arrest.”
News media are encouraged to pool equipment and personnel in all proceedings and must do so, when necessary, due to space limitations in the courtroom or limits on equipment, as set forth below.
Whenever practicable, sound recording equipment and its operating personnel should be located outside the courtroom.
Document Filing Requirements199 rules
3. I object to extended media coverage of my testimony for the following reasons (please be specific):
Additionally, each E-document shall include the case title, case number, and nature of the filing.
- Document
- E-document
Must include
- •Caption
- •Case number
Each E-document shall include the typed name, e-mail address, mailing address, and telephone number of the Filer. Attorneys shall include their ARDC registration number on all E-documents.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, the Filer shall maintain and preserve all documents containing original signatures that are filed electronically until one year after the date that any judgment or dismissal order has become final and
Except as set forth in Rules 2.8(a) and 2.8(b), E-documents requiring a signature or signatures shall be signed by each person whose signature is required.
- Document
- E-document
- Placement
- Signature block
Anyone E-filing a document that requires an original signature certifies that, by so filing, the original signed document exists in the Filer’s possession.
Each pleading shall set out the name of the circuit and county and the designation of the parties.
Every pleading, notice, or other paper filed with the Clerk that is not electronically filed shall be legibly signed by at least one attorney of record in his or her individual name or by the SRL.
An attorney for a party shall file a written appearance, by pleading or otherwise, before the attorney addresses the Court.
An SRL shall file a written appearance, by pleading or otherwise, before participating in any hearing before the Court.
An Application for Waiver of Court Fees in a civil action shall be in writing, on the form adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court, and signed by the applicant or, in the case of a minor or an incompetent adult, by another person having knowledge of the facts,
If the appearance is not e-filed, the SRL must sign the appearance, and the SRL’s signature must be acknowledged before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths under Illinois law.
Every written appearance must contain the attorney’s legible name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address. If the appearance is filed by a law firm, the appearance shall indicate the specific attorney or attorneys responsible for the case.
Every appearance must contain the SRL’s legible name, address, telephone number, and, if required, e-mail address.
If the appearance contains a waiver of notice or consent to immediate hearing, the SRL shall set forth in the appearance that the SRL has received a copy of any pleading seeking relief with respect to him or her and attach a copy of that pleading to the appearance.
A person seeking permission to appear remotely must use a written motion, unless an individual court’s standing order or a case-by-case discretionary exception allows otherwise.
Court's wording
Unless otherwise allowed by (1) an individual Court’s own standing order or (2) a case-by-case exception made within the Court’s discretion, a person seeking permission to appear remotely pursuant to S. Ct. R. 45(c) or (d) must seek that permission through a written motion filed, scheduled, and served as required by Local Rule 5.1.
Every motion must identify the requested relief and governing provision, state its factual and legal bases, and include citations to the legal authorities the moving party wants the Court to consider.
Court's wording
Every motion shall identify in its title or introductory paragraph the relief sought and the section of the Code of Civil Procedure, Code of Criminal Procedure, Supreme Court Rule, or Rule under which the motion is brought. Every motion also shall set forth its factual and legal bases and be accompanied by the citation to any legal authority the moving party desires the Court to consider.
In the notice, the party shall provide the title and number of the action, the name of the judge expected to hear the motion, and the time and date when the motion will be presented.
If the motion is for a finding of a default under Rule 5.2(1), either the notice or the motion must inform the defendant that if the defendant is found to be in default at the hearing, the defendant shall not be entitled to notice of further proceedings in the action.
In other default situations, the plaintiff must file a written motion requesting default and specifying any other relief sought at the hearing.
Court's wording
In all other instances, a plaintiff seeking a finding that a defendant is in default for failing to appear, answer, or otherwise plead must file a written motion asking that the defendant be found in default and specifying what other relief, if any, the plaintiff will seek during the hearing on the motion.
Verified complaints and affidavits must be signed by the plaintiff or an agent of the plaintiff, not by the plaintiff’s attorney.
If a motion heard without prior notice is denied, the Court shall spread of record an order of the denial.
After a motion is heard without prior notice, the attorney or SRL obtaining the order must serve written notice containing the action title and number, judge’s name, hearing date, and ruling on the specified parties.
Court's wording
If a motion is heard without prior notice under this Rule, written notice of the motion, showing the title and number of the action, the name of the judge who heard the motion, the date of the hearing, and the ruling of the Court, shall be served by the attorney or SRL obtaining the order on all parties who have appeared or have not been found by the Court to be in default and on all parties whose time to appear had not expired on the date of the hearing.
The initial conference’s time and date must appear on the original pleading and party copies or in a separate Clerk-completed document.
Court's wording
The time and date of the initial case management conference shall be affixed to the original pleading and on all copies served on or retained by the parties or indicated in a separate document completed by the Clerk to be delivered to the plaintiff and to be served with the summons on all defendants.
A request for relief concerning specified discovery materials must include and file the relevant portions as an exhibit.
Court's wording
However, if relief is sought concerning any deposition, interrogatory, request for production or inspection, answer to interrogatory, or response, copies of the portion of the deposition, interrogatory, request, answer, or response shall be attached to the request for relief as an exhibit and filed with the Clerk.
The attorney or SRL receiving or reviewing the materials shall acknowledge that fact by signing a receipt provided by the disclosing party.
A subpoena seeking documents must display or conspicuously attach the prescribed legend.
Court's wording
Any subpoena seeking documents shall bear the following legend on the face of the subpoena or conspicuously attached to the subpoena: YOU MAY COMPLY WITH THIS SUBPOENA BY MAILING LEGIBLE AND COMPLETE COPIES OF ALL REQUESTED DOCUMENTS TO THE PARTY OR ATTORNEY WHOSE ADDRESS APPEARS BELOW. IF YOU WISH TO COMPLY WITH THIS SUBPOENA BY MAIL, YOU ALSO MUST CERTIFY IN WRITING THAT THE DOCUMENTS MAILED ARE COMPLETE AND ACCURATE AND CONSTITUTE GOOD FAITH COMPLIANCE WITH THE MATERIALS REQUESTED BY THE SUBPOENA. THIS CERTIFICATION CAN BE PROVIDED IN LETTER FORM. DO NOT MAIL DOCUMENTS MORE THAN TWO BUSINESS DAYS BEFORE THE DATE STATED ON THE SUBPOENA.
IF YOU WISH TO COMPLY WITH THIS SUBPOENA BY MAIL, YOU ALSO MUST CERTIFY IN WRITING THAT THE DOCUMENTS MAILED ARE COMPLETE AND ACCURATE AND CONSTITUTE GOOD FAITH COMPLIANCE WITH THE MATERIALS REQUESTED BY THE SUBPOENA. THIS CERTIFICATION CAN BE PROVIDED IN LETTER FORM.
Unless a dispute arises concerning the extent of disclosure, all parties at the time of trial or other disposition of the case shall file the receipt or acknowledgment showing compliance with the Court’s order on discovery.
The attorney or SRL preparing the order shall place his or her name, address, and telephone number at the lower left portion of the last page of the order.
When a settlement conference is to be conducted, each attorney or SRL shall prepare a written memorandum setting forth the relevant facts of the case, the party’s settlement position, and the bases for that position and deliver a copy of the memorandum to the Court at least seven days before the conference.
Unless otherwise ordered, attorneys and SRLs must file and serve the listed pretrial documents at least 10 days before the final pretrial conference.
- Document
- Pretrial documents
Must include
- •Exhibit list
Court's wording
When a final pretrial conference is scheduled, the attorneys for each of the parties and each SRL shall file and serve pretrial documents as required by the Court at least 10 days before the final pretrial conference. Unless otherwise ordered, the pretrial documents shall include the following: (1) exhibit lists; (2) voir dire questions; (3) jury instructions; (4) special interrogatories; (5) trial memoranda; (6) statements of the case setting forth the time and place of the alleged occurrence, a brief description the occurrence, the names of the parties and their attorneys, and a list of witnesses the parties expect to call; (7) motions in limine (to be heard at the final pretrial conference); and (8) evidence deposition transcripts and objections.
If the motion is based on a conflicting setting, the motion shall be accompanied by an affidavit of the attorney setting forth the name of the other case, the name of the judge before whom the case in pending, the time and place of the conflicting setting, and the date the conflicting setting was set.
In addition to the services above mentioned, the plaintiff or attorney for the plaintiff shall, before the date of sale, supply the sheriff with: (1) A certified copy of the judgment directing sale; (2) A certificate of publication of the notice of sale; and (3) A certificate showing copies of the notices of sale have been mailed to parties to the action, when applicable.
The mediator shall report the outcome to the Court.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Electronic filing is mandated in civil case types through the Illinois Supreme Court-authorized EFM.
Specific authority has been granted for electronic filing by Illinois Supreme Court Order M.R. 18368 amended January 22, 2016, mandating electronic filing in civil case types effective January 1, 2018, through the utilization of a centralized electronic filing manager (EFM) authorized by the Illinois Supreme Court.
Page 15 | Rule 2.1 Authority
Electronic filing is required in civil cases, subject to stated rule exceptions and possible expansion to other case types by written administrative order.
Except as otherwise set forth in these Rules and the Supreme Court Rules, the Court requires electronic filing in all civil cases. With approval of the Director of the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts, the Court by written administrative order may authorize or require electronic filing of additional types of cases. The Clerk shall direct any phasing in of case types.
Page 15 | Rule 2.2 Requirement of Electronic Filing
Wills and other testamentary documents may not be accepted for electronic filing.
Wills and other testamentary documents shall not be accepted for electronic filing.
Page 15 | Rule 2.2 Requirement of Electronic Filing
Attorney registration must include the listed firm, attorney, contact, and fee-payment information.
Attorneys must register with the Clerk and shall at a minimum provide the following information: firm name; attorney names and ARDC registration numbers; address; phone number; e-mail address for E-service; staff contact information; and an approved method for paying filing fees.
Page 16 | Rule 2.4 Registration; Authorized Users
A user must register with the Clerk and the Court’s authorized E-filing Vendor before electronically filing any document.
Before E-filing any document, a user must register with the Clerk and the Court’s authorized E-filing Vendor.
Page 16 | Rule 2.4 Registration; Authorized Users
The Clerk must accept and approve electronic filings made through a Vendor or the Clerk’s computer workstation.
The Clerk shall accept and approve filings electronically, through a Vendor or through the Clerk’s computer workstation.
Page 16 | Rule 2.5 Method of Filing
All Filers must be registered through their Vendor.
All Filers shall be registered through their Vendor.
Page 16 | Rule 2.4 Registration; Authorized Users
The E-filing program must not prevent conventional filing of a pleading or document required to be filed conventionally.
At no time shall the E-filing program prevent or exclude the ability to file any pleading or document that is required to be filed by Conventional Filing.
Page 16 | Rule 2.5 Method of Filing
Documents may not be filed by facsimile unless a Supreme Court Rule or the Court authorizes it.
The Clerk shall not file documents received by facsimile transmission unless otherwise authorized by Supreme Court Rule or the Court.
Page 21 | Rule 3.2(e)
The application must be e-filed in accordance with the Rules unless the Court excuses e-filing.
and shall be e-filed in accordance with the Rules, unless e-filing is excused by the Court.
Page 26 | Rule 4.3 Application for Waiver of Court Fees
Documents may not be filed by fax unless a Supreme Court Rule or the Court authorizes it.
The Clerk shall not file documents received by facsimile transmission unless otherwise authorized by Supreme Court Rule or the Court.
The Clerk must not accept discovery materials filed in response to a Court discovery order.
The Clerk shall not accept for filing any exhibits, reports, or other materials in response to discovery orders entered by the Court.
Wills and other testamentary documents may not be e-filed.
Wills and other testamentary documents shall not be accepted for electronic filing.
Filings may be submitted electronically through a Vendor or the Clerk’s computer workstation.
The Clerk shall accept and approve filings electronically, through a Vendor or through the Clerk’s computer workstation.
Unless the Court orders otherwise, specified discovery materials must not be filed with the Clerk.
Pursuant to S. Ct. R. 201(m), and unless otherwise ordered by the Court, depositions, interrogatories, requests to produce or inspect, answers, responses, and other similar discovery documents shall not be filed with the Clerk.
Electronic filing is required in all civil cases, subject to exceptions in the local and Supreme Court Rules.
Except as otherwise set forth in these Rules and the Supreme Court Rules, the Court requires electronic filing in all civil cases.
A user must register with the Clerk and authorized E-filing Vendor before e-filing.
Before E-filing any document, a user must register with the Clerk and the Court’s authorized E-filing Vendor.
The Clerk may reject electronically filed documents from unapproved case or document types.
Any unapproved case or document type filed electronically by a Filer may be rejected by the Clerk.
Page 15 | Rule 2.2 Requirement of Electronic Filing
When the Court excuses a party from e-filing, the Clerk must scan that party’s conventionally filed documents into the electronic file.
If the Court excuses a party from the obligation to electronically file documents, the Clerk shall scan documents filed by Conventional Filing by that party into the electronic file.
Page 16 | Rule 2.5 Method of Filing
When the Court excuses a party from e-filing, the Clerk must scan that party’s conventionally filed documents into the electronic file.
If the Court excuses a party from the obligation to electronically file documents, the Clerk shall scan documents filed by Conventional Filing by that party into the electronic file.
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The objection must be filed within three days after receiving notice of the request for extended media coverage.
3. This objection is filed within three (3) days of receiving notice of the request for extended media coverage.
Page 1 | OBJECTION OF PARTY TO REQUEST FOR EXTENDED MEDIA COVERAGE
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings that fall on a listed legal holiday are extended to the next business day of the Court.
The time for filing all motions and pleadings is extended to the next business day of the Court.
Court notice
Page 1 | 15th Judicial Circuit Court Holidays
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings that fall on a listed legal holiday extend to the Court’s next business day.
The time for filing all motions and pleadings is extended to the next business day of the Court.
Court notice
Page 1 | 15th Judicial Circuit Court Holidays
The objection must be filed with the Clerk before the witness’s testimony begins.
4. This objection is filed with the Clerk of the Court prior to the commencement of my testimony.
Page 1 | OBJECTION OF WITNESS TO REQUEST FOR EXTENDED MEDIA COVERAGE OF TESTIMONY
The transmission time determines the e-filing time; pleadings received before midnight on an open day are filed that day, while filings on a closed day are filed the next business day, subject to Rule 2.13.
Except as set forth in Rule 2.13, the transmission date and time of transfer shall determine the date and time of the E-filing. Pleadings received by the Clerk before midnight on a day the Clerk’s office is open shall be deemed filed that day. If filed on a day the Clerk’s office is not open, the document will be deemed filed the next business day.
Page 19 | Rule 2.10 Time of Filing; Acceptance by the Clerk and Electronic Filing Stamp
A pleading accompanied by an indigency petition is considered filed when electronically filed or properly presented to the Clerk.
A pleading accompanied by a petition to sue or defend as an indigent person is considered filed when it is electronically filed or properly presented to the Clerk for filing.
Page 21 | Rule 3.2(b)
A judge may unseal and open a case, record, or document if a party fails to object to unsealing or opening within 30 days following written notice of the intent to unseal or open.
A judge may unseal and open a case, record, or document if a party fails to object to unsealing or opening within 30 days following written notice of the intent to unseal or open.
Page 23 | Rule 3.3(e)
A filing deadline that falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or designated holiday extends to the Court’s next business day.
If the deadline for filing a notice, pleading, or action is on a Saturday, Sunday, or designated holiday, the time for filing the notice, pleading, or action is extended to the next business day of the Court.
Page 23 | Rule 3.4
A party who appears without service of summons must plead within the time that would apply if summons had been served on the day of the appearance.
A party who appears without having been served with summons is required to plead within the same time as if served with summons on the day he or she appears.
Page 26 | Rule 4.1 Appearances
The moving party must call a motion for hearing, and the Court may strike it if it is not called within 90 days after filing.
The burden of calling a motion for hearing is on the moving party. If a motion is not called for hearing within 90 days from the date it is filed, the Court may enter an order striking the motion.
Page 31 | Failure to Call Motions for Hearing
A complaint or petition requesting specified ex parte or emergency relief must be filed with the Clerk before presentation to the Court if presented during business hours.
Every complaint or petition requesting an ex parte order appointing a receiver, a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a domestic violence order, or any other emergency relief shall be filed with the Clerk, if during business hours, before presentation to the Court.
Page 31 | Ex Parte and Emergency Motions—Filing Required
Unless the Court orders otherwise, an opposition to a dispositive motion must be filed within 28 days after the motion is filed.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, responsive briefs in opposition to dispositive motions shall be filed no later than 28 days after the dispositive motion is filed.
Page 32 | Dispositive Motions—Briefs
Proof of service must be filed with the Clerk within 48 hours after the hearing.
Proof of service shall be filed with the Clerk within 48 hours after the hearing.
Page 32 | Ex Parte and Emergency Motions—Notice After Hearing
Dispositive motions must be filed and brought to argument with notice at least 90 days before trial, subject to the Court’s power to limit or extend the period in the interests of justice.
All dispositive motions (e.g., motions to dismiss, motions for judgment on the pleadings, motions for summary judgment) must be filed and brought to argument (pursuant to notice) before the Court no later than 90 days before the assigned trial date. The Court may limit or extend this time in the interests of justice.
Page 32 | Dispositive Motions—Time for Filing
An attorney or SRL directed to submit a written order must meet the 30-day deadline or another deadline set by the Court.
When the Court enters a ruling in any case, it may require that a written order be submitted through e-filing or otherwise, and the attorney or SRL directed to submit the order shall do so within 30 days or other time established by the Court.
Page 35 | Rule 5.7 Written Draft Orders
The settlement memorandum must be delivered to the Court at least seven days before the conference.
When a settlement conference is to be conducted, each attorney or SRL shall prepare a written memorandum setting forth the relevant facts of the case, the party’s settlement position, and the bases for that position and deliver a copy of the memorandum to the Court at least seven days before the conference.
Page 35 | Rule 5.8 Settlement Conference
Required pretrial documents must be filed at least 10 days before the final pretrial conference.
When a final pretrial conference is scheduled, the attorneys for each of the parties and each SRL shall file and serve pretrial documents as required by the Court at least 10 days before the final pretrial conference.
Page 36 | Rule 5.9(a) Required Documents
A trial-continuance motion must be filed at least seven days before trial.
The motion shall be filed, and written notice given to all attorneys and SRLs of record, at least seven days before the trial date and set for hearing at least four days before the trial date.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10 Trial Continuances
A motion to defer mediation may be made within 14 days after entry of the referral order.
Within 14 days after entry of the order of referral, any party may move to defer the mediation.
Page 41 | Motion to Defer Mediation
The mediator must file the report within 14 days after mediation terminates.
Within 14 days after the termination of a mediation, the mediator shall file with the Clerk a report as to whether an agreement was reached, in whole or in part.
Page 43 | Report of Mediator
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The media coverage request states that proper notice has been given to the court media liaison, counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
Proper notice has been given to the court media liaison, all counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
Page 1 | EXTENDED MEDIA COVERAGE REQUEST FORM
Proper notice must be given to the requestor, the court media liaison, all counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
4. Proper notice has been given to the requestor, the court media liaison, all counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
Page 1 | OBJECTION OF PARTY TO REQUEST FOR EXTENDED MEDIA COVERAGE
Notice of the objection must be given to the requestor, court media liaison, counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
5. Proper notice of this objection has been given to the requestor, the court media liaison, all counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
Page 1 | OBJECTION OF WITNESS TO REQUEST FOR EXTENDED MEDIA COVERAGE OF TESTIMONY
E-service does not confer jurisdiction where the law requires personal service.
“Electronic Service” and “E-service” mean and refer to an electronic transmission of documents to an SRL, attorney, or representative in a case. However, E- service shall not confer jurisdiction when personal service is required by law.
Page 15 | Rule 2.3 Definitions
Documents requiring personal service to confer jurisdiction cannot be served electronically and must be served conventionally.
Documents that require personal service to confer jurisdiction may not be served electronically and must be served in the conventional manner.
Page 19 | Rule 2.11 Electronic Service and Filing Proof of Service
E-service must comply with Supreme Court Rules 11 and 12, is complete at the Vendor-posted transmission time, and is effective on parties registered to receive it.
E-service shall be made in accordance with Supreme Court Rules 11 and 12 and shall be deemed complete at the posted date and time of transmission listed by the Vendor. The E-service of a pleading or other document shall be considered valid and effective service on all parties that are registered to receive E-service and shall have the same legal effect as personal service of an original paper document.
Page 19 | Rule 2.11 Electronic Service and Filing Proof of Service
Documents must be served on parties not registered for e-filing or e-service as provided by the applicable order, rule, or statute.
Service of documents on parties not registered as an E-filing or E-service participant shall be made as otherwise provided by order, rule, or statute.
Page 19 | Rule 2.11 Electronic Service and Filing Proof of Service
An SRL must serve copies of the appearance as required for service of pleadings.
The SRL shall serve copies of his or her appearance in the manner required for the service of pleadings.
Page 26 | Rule 4.1 Appearances
An attorney must serve copies of the written appearance as required for service of pleadings.
The attorney shall serve copies of the written appearance in the manner required for the service of pleadings.
Page 26 | Rule 4.1 Appearances
A written motion seeking permission to appear remotely must be served as required by Local Rule 5.1, unless an individual court’s standing order or a case-by-case discretionary exception allows otherwise.
Unless otherwise allowed by (1) an individual Court’s own standing order or (2) a case-by-case exception made within the Court’s discretion, a person seeking permission to appear remotely pursuant to S. Ct. R. 45(c) or (d) must seek that permission through a written motion filed, scheduled, and served as required by Local Rule 5.1.
Page 28 | Rule 4.4(d) Procedures for Requesting Permission to Appear Remotely
Unless the Court orders otherwise, a pre-marked exhibit may be used at a remote hearing only if it was provided to all other parties and the Court at least one full business day beforehand.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, remote hearings shall be conducted as follows: (1) The Court will host the hearing and control entry into the hearing; (2) If requested by a party and if technologically feasible, the Court may allow breakout meetings, private chats, or other private communication between attorneys and clients during the hearing; provided, however, that during the testimony of any person, that person may not communicate by private chat with any other person; (3) The Court is responsible for the official record of the remote hearing, and no party may record any part of the hearing through the Zoom platform or any other means; (4) Any person permitted to testify remotely must appear by both video and audio; (5) When a participant is not speaking, the participant shall mute her or his microphone; (6) All participants must be in an environment free of video and/or audio distractions; (7) No exhibit may be used during a remote hearing unless a copy of the pre-marked exhibit was provided to all other parties and the Court at least one full business day before the hearing;
Page 28 | Rule 4.4(e) Conduct of Remote Hearings and Required Decorum
Unless the Court allows otherwise, when the party made a good-faith scheduling effort but an opposing party did not cooperate, hearing notice must be served at least three days before the hearing.
Unless otherwise allowed by the Court, if an attorney or SRL has made this good-faith effort but an opposing party has not cooperated in determining a mutually agreeable time and date, notice of the hearing must be served at least three days before the hearing.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
When hearing notice is served on any party by regular mail, it must be mailed at least 14 days before the hearing.
if the notice is served on any party by regular mail, the notice of hearing must be mailed at least 14 days before the hearing.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
The party must serve a copy of the motion with the hearing notice or state that the motion was served previously.
The party shall serve a copy of the motion with the notice or state the motion previously has been served.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
Except during trial, written motion-hearing notice must be given to parties who have appeared and are not in default and to parties whose time to appear has not expired; notice of additional relief must comply with Supreme Court Rule 105.
Except during trial, written notice of the hearing of a motion shall be given to all parties who have appeared and have not been found by the Court to be in default and to all parties whose time to appear has not expired on the date of notice. Notice that additional relief is being sought shall be given in accordance with S. Ct. R. 105.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
Unless the Court allows otherwise, if the attorney or self-represented litigant did not make the good-faith scheduling effort, hearing notice may not be served less than 10 days before the hearing.
Unless otherwise allowed by the Court, if an attorney or SRL has not made this good-faith effort, notice of the hearing may not be served less than 10 days before the hearing;
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
Motion-hearing notice must be given in the manner and to the persons specified in Supreme Court Rule 11.
Notice shall be given in the manner and to the persons described in S. Ct. R 11.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
A notice of motion and motion for default must be served in accordance with Rule 5.1.
Service of a notice of motion and motion for default shall be made in accordance with Rule 5.1.
Page 31 | Motions for Default—Determination of Default
A plaintiff seeking a judgment or order beyond a default finding must serve a copy of the proposed judgment or order with the motion for default.
If the plaintiff seeks entry of a judgment or order (other than an order finding the defendant in default), the plaintiff shall serve a copy of the proposed judgment or order with the motion for default.
Page 31 | Motions for Default—Determination of Default
The attorney or SRL obtaining an order after a hearing without prior notice must serve written notice on the parties specified in the rule, in the manner described in S. Ct. R. 11.
If a motion is heard without prior notice under this Rule, written notice of the motion, showing the title and number of the action, the name of the judge who heard the motion, the date of the hearing, and the ruling of the Court, shall be served by the attorney or SRL obtaining the order on all parties who have appeared or have not been found by the Court to be in default and on all parties whose time to appear had not expired on the date of the hearing. Notice shall be given in the manner and to the persons described in S. Ct. R. 11.
Page 32 | Ex Parte and Emergency Motions—Notice After Hearing
Filing Fees and Waivers
When an e-filing includes a fee-waiver request under Supreme Court Rule 298, payment is stayed until the Court rules on the request.
When the E-filing includes a request for waiver of fees pursuant to S. Ct. R. 298, payment of the fees shall be stayed until the Court rules on the request.
Page 20 | Rule 2.12 Collection of Fees
Statutory filing fees must be paid through the EFM to achieve valid filing status unless waived.
The payment of statutory filing fees to the Clerk in order to achieve valid filing status, unless otherwise waived, shall be as authorized through the EFM.
Page 20 | Rule 2.12 Collection of Fees
A pleading will not be accepted for filing unless accompanied by any required filing fee or an indigency application under the cited authorities.
The Clerk shall not accept a pleading for filing or electronic filing unless the pleading is accompanied by any required filing fee or an application to sue or defend as an indigent person pursuant to S. Ct. R. 298 and 735 ILCS 5/5-105.
Page 21 | Rule 3.2(b)
One appearance filed for several parties incurs one appearance fee; separate appearances for several parties incur separate fees.
If a single appearance is filed for several parties, a single appearance fee shall be paid. If separate appearances are entered for several parties, either by the same or different attorneys, separate appearance fees shall be paid.
Page 26 | Rule 4.2 Appearance Fees
The appearance fee must be paid when the appearance is filed.
The appearance fee shall be paid when the appearance is filed.
Page 26 | Rule 4.2 Appearance Fees
The required fee must be paid when the supplemental-proceeding petition is filed.
The required fee shall be paid when the petition is filed.
Page 60 | Rule 9.4(b) Invoking Jurisdiction
A jury demand requires payment of the required fee, including an opposing party’s demand after the petitioner or claimant waives a jury trial.
A petitioner or claimant desirous of a jury trial under the Act must file a jury demand with the Clerk and pay the required fee when the petition or claim is filed. A representative or other party in interest opposing the petition or claim that desires a jury trial must file a jury demand and pay the fee when filing the answer or other responsive pleading. If the petitioner or claimant files a jury demand and later waives a jury trial, the opposing party will be granted a jury trial on demand made within 30 days of being advised of the waiver and payment of the fee.
Page 65 | Rule 9.13, Jury Demand
Estate-settlement attorney fees are capped at 33⅓% absent a supporting sworn affidavit, and capped at 50% after an appeal and reviewing-court disposition.
The Court shall not allow attorney’s fees in excess of 33 1/3% of the gross settlement amount unless the attorney representing the estate in a sworn affidavit recites the work and hours involved or other special circumstances that justify a higher attorney’s fee to compensate the attorney fairly for the work performed; provided, however, that if an appeal is perfected and the case disposed of by the reviewing court, the attorney’s fee shall not in any event exceed 50% of the recovery.
A petitioner or claimant seeking a jury trial must file the demand and pay the fee with the petition or claim.
A petitioner or claimant desirous of a jury trial under the Act must file a jury demand with the Clerk and pay the required fee when the petition or claim is filed.
Pay the appearance fee when filing the appearance.
The appearance fee shall be paid when the appearance is filed.
A pleading must be accompanied by the required fee or an indigency application to be accepted for filing.
The Clerk shall not accept a pleading for filing or electronic filing unless the pleading is accompanied by any required filing fee or an application to sue or defend as an indigent person pursuant to S. Ct. R. 298 and 735 ILCS 5/5-105.
A supplemental-proceeding petition must identify the proceeding type, use the estate’s case number with a letter suffix, and pay the required fee when filed.
The petition shall designate the type of proceeding and shall employ the same case number as the estate to which it relates with suffix “A,” “B,” “C,” etc. The required fee shall be paid when the petition is filed.
An opposing party seeking a jury trial must file the demand and pay the fee with its answer or other responsive pleading.
A representative or other party in interest opposing the petition or claim that desires a jury trial must file a jury demand and pay the fee when filing the answer or other responsive pleading.
Statutory filing fees must be paid through the EFM unless waived.
The payment of statutory filing fees to the Clerk in order to achieve valid filing status, unless otherwise waived, shall be as authorized through the EFM.
A person or entity seeking access to a sealed or impounded case, record, or document, regardless of whether they were a party in the original case and regardless of whether the case is pending or closed, may, on the proper filing of an appearance and if required, paying the appropriate filing fee, file a motion requesting the order sealing or impounding the case, records, or document be vacated.
A person or entity seeking access to a sealed or impounded case, record, or document, regardless of whether they were a party in the original case and regardless of whether the case is pending or closed, may, on the proper filing of an appearance and if required, paying the appropriate filing fee, file a motion requesting the order sealing or impounding the case, records, or document be vacated.
Page 23 | Rule 3.3(f)
A person cited in supplementary proceedings under 735 ILCS 5/2-1401 is not required to pay an appearance fee.
No appearance fee shall be required of a person cited in supplementary proceedings under the provisions of 735 ILCS 5/2-1401.
Page 26 | Rule 4.2 Appearance Fees
If no estate assets remain, costs may be waived and unpaid fees and expenses may be barred.
If no assets remain in the estate, costs may be waived, and other fees and expenses unpaid may be barred pursuant to section 15 of the Act.
Page 63 | Rule 9.10(d) Procedure on Dismissal
A jury fee that has been paid will not be reimbursed if the jury is later waived.
The jury fee, once paid, shall not be reimbursed on a subsequent waiver of jury.
Page 66 | Rule 9.13, Jury Demand
Payment of filing fees is stayed while the Court decides an included fee-waiver request.
When the E-filing includes a request for waiver of fees pursuant to S. Ct. R. 298, payment of the fees shall be stayed until the Court rules on the request.
No filing fee is charged for an extended-media-coverage request or objection.
There shall be no filing fees associated with filing a request for extended media coverage or an objection to extended media coverage.
Page 3 | 3.0 General
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Parties must provide courtesy copies of documents to the Court if the Court requests them.
If requested by the Court, parties shall provide courtesy copies of documents to the Court.
Page 19 | Rule 2.11 Electronic Service and Filing Proof of Service
Parties must provide the Court courtesy copies when requested.
If requested by the Court, parties shall provide courtesy copies of documents to the Court.
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
The filer must ensure electronically filed documents and exhibits do not disclose impounded, sealed, or defined private information.
It is the responsibility of the Filer to ensure documents or exhibits filed electronically do not disclose information previously or statutorily impounded or sealed under these Rules or private information as defined in Supreme Court Rules 15 and 138.
Page 17 | Rule 2.6 Privacy
Public access to Court files and records is strongly presumed, and sealing requires a compelling showing that protection interests outweigh the public’s right of access.
A strong statutory presumption of public access to the Court’s files and records exists that may be overcome only on a compelling showing that the public’s right of access is outweighed by the interests of the public and the parties in protecting files, records, or documents from public view.
Page 21 | Rule 3.3(a)
Adoption files must be impounded as provided by the cited statute.
Adoption files shall be impounded subject to the terms of 750 ILCS 50/18.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(2)
Juvenile files must be impounded as provided by the cited statutes.
Juvenile files shall be impounded subject to the terms of 705 ILCS 405/1-8 and 705 ILCS 405/5-901.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(1)
Mental health records must be impounded as provided by the cited statutes.
Mental health records shall be impounded subject to the terms of 740 ILCS 110/1 et seq.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(6)
A motion to seal or impound must be written, presented to the Court after appropriate notice to all parties, and state the basis and proposed duration.
All motions to seal or impound a file, record, or document must be made in writing and presented to the Court after appropriate notice to all parties. The motion must explain the basis for sealing or impounding the file, record, or document and specify the proposed duration of the sealing
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(d)
Financial affidavits and other documents described in Rule 8.1(c) must be impounded as that rule provides.
Financial affidavits and other documents described in Rule 8.1(c) shall be impounded as described in the Rule.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(8)
Judge’s notes described in Rule 3.8 must be impounded as that rule provides.
Judge’s notes as described in Rule 3.8 shall be impounded as described in the Rule.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(9)
Fitness reports and psychological or psychiatric evaluations must be impounded as provided by the cited statute.
Fitness reports and psychological and/or psychiatric evaluations shall be impounded subject to the terms of 725 ILCS 5/104-19.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(4)
Proceedings under the Parental Notice of Abortion Act must be sealed as provided by the cited statute.
Proceedings under the Parental Notice of Abortion Act shall be sealed pursuant to the terms of 750 ILCS 70/25.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(3)
Reports concerning adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian must be impounded as provided by the cited statute.
Reports filed with respect to adjudication of disability and appointment of guardian shall be impounded subject to the terms of 755 ILCS 5/11a-9.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(7)
Unless an exception is provided by statute, the Manual on Recordkeeping, or these Rules, a file, record, or document may be impounded or sealed only by Court order.
Except as otherwise provided by statute, the Manual on Recordkeeping, or these Rules, files, records, or documents may be impounded or sealed only on order of the Court.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(b)
Pre-trial bond reports and substance abuse evaluations must be impounded unless the Court directs otherwise.
Pre-trial bond reports and substance abuse evaluations shall be impounded unless otherwise directed by the Court.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(10)
Presentence investigation reports must be impounded as provided by the cited statute.
Presentence investigation reports shall be impounded subject to the terms of 730 ILCS 5/5-3-4 (a) and (b).
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(5)
A motion to seal or impound may itself be sealed on specific request if it discusses confidential material, and any order granting relief must specify the scope, whether parties’ names are removed from public access, and the duration.
Any motion to seal or impound, on specific request, may also be sealed or impounded if it contains a discussion of the confidential material. The Court shall enter a written order granting, granting in part, or denying the request. If the Court grants the motion in whole or in part, the order shall designate whether the entire file, record, or document or only a portion of the entire file, record, or document shall be sealed or impounded. The order shall further designate whether it includes removing the parties’ names from public access and the duration the file is to be sealed or impounded.
Page 23 | Rule 3.3
Any person or entity may seek access to sealed or impounded material by filing an appearance and, if required, paying the appropriate filing fee before moving to vacate the sealing or impounding order.
A person or entity seeking access to a sealed or impounded case, record, or document, regardless of whether they were a party in the original case and regardless of whether the case is pending or closed, may, on the proper filing of an appearance and if required, paying the appropriate filing fee, file a motion requesting the order sealing or impounding the case, records, or document be vacated.
Page 23 | Rule 3.3(f)
The Clerk must automatically impound specified financial, identifying, and sensitive reports, restricting access and copying to the parties and attorneys of record.
In accordance with Rule 3.3, if any party files a financial affidavit, other documents containing a social security or account number, or a medical, psychiatric, psychological, mediator’s, or guardian ad litem’s report, the Clerk shall without further order impound the document so that only the parties and attorneys of record in the action may have access to them and the right to copy them.
Page 52 | Impoundment of Documents
The Clerk must impound specified financial, identifying, and health-related documents without further order, limiting access to parties and counsel of record.
In accordance with Rule 3.3, if any party files a financial affidavit, other documents containing a social security or account number, or a medical, psychiatric, psychological, mediator’s, or guardian ad litem’s report, the Clerk shall without further order impound the document so that only the parties and attorneys of record in the action may have access to them and the right to copy them.
Filers must ensure e-filed documents and exhibits do not disclose impounded, sealed, or specified private information.
It is the responsibility of the Filer to ensure documents or exhibits filed electronically do not disclose information previously or statutorily impounded or sealed under these Rules or private information as defined in Supreme Court Rules 15 and 138.
Filing Bundling Requirements
Bulk PDFs combining cases or documents are not accepted; documents with different case numbers require separate transactions, while documents in one case may share a transaction if each is uploaded and titled individually, with an exception for law-enforcement citation filings.
Bulk filings of multiple cases or multiple documents combined into one PDF document shall not be accepted by the Clerk; however, multiple citations being electronically filed may be transmitted to the Clerk as a single transaction directly from a law enforcement agency. Documents with different case numbers must be filed individually in separate transactions. Filing of individual documents within a case shall be accepted in a single Electronic Filing transaction; however, each individual document must be uploaded and titled individually.
Page 18 | Rule 2.7(g) Bulk Filings
A supporting brief for a dispositive motion must be filed with the motion.
Briefs in support of dispositive motions shall be filed with the motion.
Page 32 | Dispositive Motions—Briefs
Bulk combined-PDF filings are prohibited, except that law-enforcement agencies may transmit multiple citations in one transaction; separate case numbers require separate transactions, while individually uploaded and titled documents in one case may share a transaction.
Bulk filings of multiple cases or multiple documents combined into one PDF document shall not be accepted by the Clerk; however, multiple citations being electronically filed may be transmitted to the Clerk as a single transaction directly from a law enforcement agency. Documents with different case numbers must be filed individually in separate transactions. Filing of individual documents within a case shall be accepted in a single Electronic Filing transaction; however, each individual document must be uploaded and titled individually.
File briefs supporting dispositive motions with the motion.
Briefs in support of dispositive motions shall be filed with the motion.
All exhibits to a motion should be filed with the motion; provided, however, that parties are discouraged from attaching previously filed pleadings as exhibits to motions.
All exhibits to a motion should be filed with the motion; provided, however, that parties are discouraged from attaching previously filed pleadings as exhibits to motions.
Page 31 | Exhibits to Motions
Exhibits should be filed with the motion, but parties are discouraged from attaching pleadings already on file.
All exhibits to a motion should be filed with the motion; provided, however, that parties are discouraged from attaching previously filed pleadings as exhibits to motions.
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
All settlement conferences must comply with S. Ct. R. 63A(5)(c).
All settlement conferences shall be undertaken pursuant to S. Ct. R. 63A(5)(c).
Page 35 | Rule 5.8 Settlement Conference
Unless excused, persons able to negotiate and bind a party to settlement must attend the settlement conference.
Unless specifically excused by the Court, the attendance of parties with the ability to meaningfully negotiate toward a settlement agreement on behalf of a party and, if successful, to bind that party to an enforceable settlement agreement is required.
The Court may decide a motion on submitted briefs without oral argument or a hearing.
At the discretion of the Court, a motion may be taken by the Court by submission only, with each party submitting briefs and the Court ruling without oral argument or hearing.
Page 31 | Oral Argument
A settlement conference with the Court is recommended within 30 days after discovery is completed in a civil case.
Within 30 days of discovery being completed in a civil case, it is recommended that a settlement conference be conducted with the Court to explore the possibility of settlement and to determine if the issues can be narrowed.
Page 35 | Rule 5.8 Settlement Conference
The Court recommends holding a settlement conference within 30 days after discovery is completed in a civil case.
Within 30 days of discovery being completed in a civil case, it is recommended that a settlement conference be conducted with the Court to explore the possibility of settlement and to determine if the issues can be narrowed.
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A motion to continue may be allowed only for good cause.
No motion to continue shall be allowed for other than good cause.
Page 32 | Motions to Continue
A case management conference continuance must be set to a definite date for a subsequent conference and made by written order or docket entry.
All continuances of a case management conference shall be to a date certain for a subsequent case management conference and made pursuant to a written order or docket entry.
Page 33
A trial-continuance motion and written notice to attorneys and SRLs of record are due at least seven days before trial, and the motion must be set for hearing at least four days before trial.
The motion shall be filed, and written notice given to all attorneys and SRLs of record, at least seven days before the trial date and set for hearing at least four days before the trial date.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10 Trial Continuances
An agreed or uncontested jury-trial continuance is allowed only when justice otherwise would be denied; an agreed or stipulated bench-trial continuance requires good cause and, whenever practicable, must be heard at least four days before trial, and only the Court may grant a continuance.
Even if a motion to continue a jury trial is agreed or uncontested, a continuance will be allowed only when justice otherwise would be denied. An agreed or stipulated motion to continue a bench trial will only be allowed on good cause shown and, whenever practicable, an agreed or stipulated motion to continue a bench trial must be heard at least four days before the trial is to begin. Only the Court can grant a motion to continue a trial.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10 Trial Continuances
A party may move to defer mediation within 14 days after referral; the motion must be noticed for hearing before the scheduled mediation, notify interested parties, explain the supporting facts in detail, and mediation is tolled pending the Court’s decision.
(d) Motion to Defer Mediation. Within 14 days after entry of the order of referral, any party may move to defer the mediation. The movant shall notice the motion for hearing before the mediation’s scheduled date. Notice of the hearing shall be provided to all interested parties, including any mediator who has been appointed. The motion shall set forth, in detail, the facts and circumstances supporting the motion. Mediation shall be tolled until the Court decides the motion.
Page 41 | Motion to Defer Mediation
Mediation must be completed within seven weeks of the first mediation conference unless the Court orders an extension or the parties stipulate to one.
Mediation shall be completed with seven weeks of the first mediation conference unless extended by order of the Court or by stipulation of the parties.
Page 42 | Termination of Mediation
A representative seeking an extension or less frequent accountings must petition with reasons, and an granted extension must specify a definite date for the next accounting.
If a representative seeks an extension of time to a definite date or an order allowing accountings less frequently than required by these Rules, the representative shall file a verified petition specifying the reasons for the request. If the Court grants a petition for extension, it shall set a definite date for the representative to file the next accounting.
Page 65 | Rule 9.12(c), Requests for Extension of Time
A trial-continuance motion must comply with the cited authorities, be filed and noticed at least seven days before trial, and be set for hearing at least four days before trial.
All motions to continue a trial shall fully comply with this Rule and 735 ILCS 5/2-1007, S. Ct. R. 231, and 725 ILCS 5/114-4, as applicable. The motion shall be filed, and written notice given to all attorneys and SRLs of record, at least seven days before the trial date and set for hearing at least four days before the trial date.
Continue a case-management conference only to a definite date for another conference, by written order or docket entry.
All continuances of a case management conference shall be to a date certain for a subsequent case management conference and made pursuant to a written order or docket entry.
Only the Court may grant a trial continuance.
Only the Court can grant a motion to continue a trial.
An agreed bench-trial continuance requires good cause and, when practicable, must be heard at least four days before trial.
An agreed or stipulated motion to continue a bench trial will only be allowed on good cause shown and, whenever practicable, an agreed or stipulated motion to continue a bench trial must be heard at least four days before the trial is to begin.
A motion to continue may be granted only for good cause.
No motion to continue shall be allowed for other than good cause.
An agreed or uncontested jury-trial continuance may be granted only when justice otherwise would be denied.
Even if a motion to continue a jury trial is agreed or uncontested, a continuance will be allowed only when justice otherwise would be denied.
A representative seeking an accounting extension or less frequent accounts must file a verified petition stating reasons; any granted extension must set a definite next filing date.
If a representative seeks an extension of time to a definite date or an order allowing accountings less frequently than required by these Rules, the representative shall file a verified petition specifying the reasons for the request. If the Court grants a petition for extension, it shall set a definite date for the representative to file the next accounting.
Matters scheduled to be returnable on a listed legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
All matters returnable on said legal holidays will be continued to the next business day of the Court.
Court notice
Page 1 | 15th Judicial Circuit Court Holidays
Matters scheduled to be heard on a listed legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
All matters returnable on said legal holidays will be continued to the next business day of the Court.
Court notice
Page 1 | 15th Judicial Circuit Court Holidays
Absent extraordinary circumstances, anyone prejudiced by a filing being treated as effective on the first attempted date is entitled to an order extending the affected response period or other deadline.
In the case of a filing error, absent extraordinary circumstances, anyone prejudiced by the requirement in these Rules to accept a subsequent filing effective as of the date filing was first attempted shall be entitled to an order extending the date for any response or period within which any right, duty, or other act must be performed.
Page 20 | Rule 2.13 System or User Errors
The Court may require affidavits from the parties and attorneys in connection with a motion to continue.
The Court may require affidavits of the parties and attorneys.
Page 32 | Motions to Continue
Counsel’s agreement on a motion to continue does not bind the Court.
Agreements of counsel as to a motion to continue shall not be binding on the Court.
Page 32 | Motions to Continue
Chambers Communication Rules
Filers must immediately notify the other parties, the Clerk, and the EFM of any change to their listed contact information.
All Filers must immediately notify other parties, the Clerk, and the EFM of any change of name, mailing address,
Page 19 | Rule 2.11 Electronic Service and Filing Proof of Service
If the parties do not agree on a mediator within 14 days after referral, the plaintiff, plaintiff’s attorney, or an attorney agreed on by all attorneys must notify the Court within the following seven days.
If the parties cannot agree on a mediator within 14 days after the entry of the order of referral, the plaintiff or plaintiff’s attorney (or another attorney agreed on by all attorneys) shall notify the Court within the next seven days, and the Court shall appoint a certified mediator.
Page 41 | Appointment of Mediator
The mediator must not discuss mediation issues with a party alone or another person unless the parties consent as provided by the Rule.
The mediator shall not communicate with either party alone or with any other person to discuss mediation issues without the consent of the parties as set forth in this Rule.
Page 57 | Mediator Ex Parte Communication
Attorneys, self-represented litigants, and the mediator must not communicate further about the mediation process except as the Rules allow.
The attorneys, SRLs, and mediator shall not have further communication with regard to the mediation process except as allowed by these Rules.
Page 58 | Pre-Session Letter to Mediator
Filers must immediately notify the other parties, Clerk, and EFM of changes to their name or contact information.
All Filers must immediately notify other parties, the Clerk, and the EFM of any change of name, mailing address,
If a case settles before the final pretrial conference or trial, the attorneys and SRLs must notify the Court as soon as reasonably possible.
If a case settles before a scheduled final pretrial conference or before trial, the attorneys for the parties and each SRL shall notify the Court of the settlement as soon as reasonably possible.
Prior approval from judge needed to be admitted to online courtroom.
Prior approval from judge needed to be admitted to online courtroom.
Page 1 | Stephenson County — Judge James M. Hauser
A copy of any permitted e-mail sent to a judge or other e-mail sent to a judge’s court reporter, specialist, or assistant should at the same time be sent to all opposing counsel and SRLs who have appeared in the case.
A copy of any permitted e-mail sent to a judge or other e-mail sent to a judge’s court reporter, specialist, or assistant should at the same time be sent to all opposing counsel and SRLs who have appeared in the case.
Page 12 | Rule 1.16 E-Mail Communication with Judges
Attorneys and SRLs should not send ex parte emails to judges about pending matters unless a judge or court personnel specifically requests it.
Unless specifically requested to do so by a judge or court personnel, attorneys and SRLs should not send ex parte e-mails to judges regarding pending matters.
Page 12 | Rule 1.16 E-Mail Communication with Judges
Whenever reasonably possible, an attorney or self-represented litigant setting a hearing must make a good-faith effort to coordinate with the Court and opposing parties on a mutually convenient date and time consistent with the Court’s docket.
Whenever reasonably possible, an attorney or SRL setting a matter for hearing shall make a good-faith effort to work with the Court and all opposing attorneys or SRLs to set the hearing at a time and date that is mutually convenient and consistent with the Court’s docket.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1 Motion Practice
A mediator who is subpoenaed or noticed to testify must immediately inform the parties or their attorneys.
If subpoenaed or otherwise noticed to testify, the mediator shall inform the parties or their attorneys immediately so as to afford the party an opportunity to quash the process.
Page 57 | Subpoenaed Mediator
When reasonably possible, the party setting a hearing must make a good-faith effort to coordinate a mutually convenient date and time with the Court and opposing parties.
Whenever reasonably possible, an attorney or SRL setting a matter for hearing shall make a good-faith effort to work with the Court and all opposing attorneys or SRLs to set the hearing at a time and date that is mutually convenient and consistent with the Court’s docket.
Unless otherwise requested by the judge or court personnel, e-mails regarding scheduling or other procedural matters should be sent to the judge’s court reporter, specialist, or assistant.
Unless otherwise requested by the judge or court personnel, e-mails regarding scheduling or other procedural matters should be sent to the judge’s court reporter, specialist, or assistant.
Attorneys and SRLs should not email judges ex parte about pending matters unless specifically requested.
Unless specifically requested to do so by a judge or court personnel, attorneys and SRLs should not send ex parte e-mails to judges regarding pending matters.
If an applicant must personally appear to present the application and any supporting evidence to the Court, the Clerk shall inform the applicant of the time and place of the appearance when the applicant files the application.
If an applicant must personally appear to present the application and any supporting evidence to the Court, the Clerk shall inform the applicant of the time and place of the appearance when the applicant files the application.
For information about a specific case, contact the relevant county Circuit Clerk’s office by phone.
If you have questions or need information regarding a specific court case (court dates, filing information, court orders, etc.), please contact the individual county for information. The County Circuit Clerk offices phone numbers are listed below.
Court notice
Page 1 | Contact
For information about a specific case, contact the relevant county through its Circuit Clerk office.
If you have questions or need information regarding a specific court case (court dates, filing information, court orders, etc.), please contact the individual county for information. The County Circuit Clerk offices phone numbers are listed below.
Court notice
Page 1 | Contact
The Court office does not schedule court cases or file court papers.
*This office does not schedule court cases or file court papers.
Court notice
Page 1 | 15th Judicial Circuit Court Office Staff
Unless otherwise requested by the judge or court personnel, e-mails regarding scheduling or other procedural matters should be sent to the judge’s court reporter, specialist, or assistant.
Unless otherwise requested by the judge or court personnel, e-mails regarding scheduling or other procedural matters should be sent to the judge’s court reporter, specialist, or assistant.
Page 12 | Rule 1.16 E-Mail Communication with Judges