Circuit Court of Jackson County, Illinois (1st Judicial Circuit)
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Adjournments
- Continuances under the order are excluded from the specified speedy-trial computations.
- The specified statutory time restrictions are tolled until further order of the Court.
- The judge assigned to a criminal or civil case decides whether to continue the trial.
- +19 more
Request must include
Communication
Phone
Document Format Requirements3 rules
The proponent, of any exhibit requested to go to the jury during deliberations, shall provide the Court a paper copy of the same.
- File type
- Paper
- Exhibits
Exhibits for evidentiary hearings shall be marked as follows: Petitioners: Numbers with the case number. Example: Ex. 1 25-DC-1 Respondents: Letters with the case number. Example: Ex. A 25-DC-1
Exhibits shall be marked and not use duplicative numbering.
Document Filing Requirements31 rules
All pleadings shall accurately reflect that the sale shall be conducted by the Williamson County Circuit Clerk.
Proposed orders submitted pursuant to Local Rule 1.12 shall only be presented following a ruling by the Court and direction for one party to submit a proposed order or after an agreement is read on the record and approved by the Court.
All proposed orders submitted by an attorney shall include on the bottom left side of the last page of the order the name of the attorney/law firm, address, phone number and attorney registration number of the attorney who submitted the order.
Unless the Court directs otherwise, whenever a written order or judgment is required, the attorney or the prevailing party shall promptly prepare and present a draft to the court, with proof of service on opposing counsel.
All summonses, notices, and court orders setting court dates where case participants have the option to appear remotely shall include the following: (1) the Zoom Meeting ID and Password and (2) the courthouse address and courtroom number.
Each pre-trial and post-trial motion must be written and state its factual and legal basis, with a concise statement citing any legal authority the movant wishes the court to consider.
Court's wording
Every pre-trial and post-trial motion shall be in writing and (unless it be an ex parte or emergency motion) shall be served on all parties of record before filing. Each such motion shall specifically set forth its factual and legal basis. Each such motion shall contain or be accompanied by a short, concise statement containing the citation of any legal authority the movant may wish the court to consider.
The clerk shall refuse to file any pleading which is not signed and/or accompanied by a proof of service.
Every such motion shall be accompanied by a proposed order.
- Document
- Ex parte motion, emergency motion, or motion in accordance with a stipulation for an agreed order
Must include
- •Proposed order
In any case which has been pending for more than 24 months, and in any case in which trial is set to commence within 48 hours, any motion for continuance shall be personally signed by the party whose attorney is requesting the continuance, unless the judge is satisfied that good cause for the absence of the party’s signature has been shown.
An indirect civil contempt proceeding may be initiated by a verified petition that identifies with particularity the allegedly violated order provision, the violation, and the acts required to purge the contempt.
Court's wording
A proceeding for indirect civil contempt may be initiated by the filing of a petition for order to show cause why the respondent should not be held in contempt. The petition shall be verified and set forth with particularity that portion of the order that is alleged to have been violated, the nature of the violation, and the acts required of the respondent to purge the contempt.
In small claim cases, the "Notice to Defendants" required on the summons by Supreme Court Rule 101(b)(1) shall set out the text of Rule 3.1.
Upon an adjudication of civil contempt, a written judgment shall be promptly prepared and filed which specifies the contumacious conduct, the sanctions imposed, and the means by which the contemnor may purge himself.
Prior to approval of attorney’s fees in a case based upon personal injuries to a minor or a disabled person the Court shall require the submission of a sworn petition setting forth: A. the terms of employment; B. the services rendered; C. the customary and usual charges for such services; and D. any special circumstances which might bear on the question of fees.
Counsel shall file a certificate of compliance with discovery orders.
- Document
- Discovery compliance filing
Must include
- •Local rule certificate
Prior to the commencement of mediation, all participants in the mediation shall sign the confidentiality agreement prescribed by these rules.
When the parties reach agreement or partial agreement during mediation, the mediator shall provide a written account of the agreement to the parties and attorneys, but not to the court.
If the mediator has concerns for the welfare or safety of the minor child(ren) or feels that it is in the best interest of the minor, the mediator shall recommend in the final report that a child representative or guardian ad litem be appointed.
Promptly upon conclusion of mediation, the mediator shall file with the Circuit Clerk a report, on a form provided by the Chief Judge, specifying any issues on which agreement was reached or whether the matter has concluded unsuccessfully. The report shall not specify the reasons for the inability of the parties to reach agreement.
Unless mediation has sooner terminated, the mediator shall before the continued case management conference, file with the Circuit Clerk a report describing the progress of mediation in general terms.
The mediator shall immediately advise the trial judge in writing if he or she suspends or terminates mediation for some reason other than agreement or inability to reach agreement, specifying the reason for such termination.
Each attorney must complete the Child Representative Information Sheet provided by this circuit and return it with a statement or other verification of attendance at continuing education.
Verification of attendance shall be submitted to the Office of the Chief Circuit Judge at the time of attendance or upon request.
When specified parenting issues are disputed, parties must complete parenting education and provide proof of attendance to the court.
Court's wording
All parties are required to attend and complete a program of parenting education, when child custody, allocation of parental responsibilities, visitation, or parenting time issues are in dispute. The Chief Judge’s Office shall keep a listing of all programs approved by the circuit judges for this education. Proof of attendance shall be provided to the court by the parties per Supreme Court Rule 924.
If a full agreement is reached, the report of the mediator shall so state and shall identify those individuals designated to complete and submit all documents necessary to the conclusion of the agreement.
If an agreement is reached, it shall be reduced to writing and signed by the parties or their agents before termination of mediation. Each party shall receive a copy of such agreement.
The mediator’s written report must state whether agreement was reached, designate the applicable agreement status, and be signed by the mediator.
Court's wording
The mediator shall report to the court in writing whether or not an agreement was reached by the parties. The report shall designate, "full agreement", "partial agreement" or "no agreement". The report shall be signed by the mediator and filed in the court file of the case under mediation within fourteen (14) days after the last day of mediation.
If a partial agreement is reached, the report of the mediator shall state which claims have been resolved and which claims have not been resolved. The report shall also identify those individuals designated to complete and submit all documents necessary to the conclusion of those claims resolved by agreement.
The exemption certification must include a certification under section 1-109 and use the standardized form titled “Certification for Exemption From E-filing.”
Court's wording
A Certification for Exemption From E-filing shall be filed with the court-in person or by mail-and include a certification under section 1-109 of the Code of Civil Procedure. The court shall provide, and parties shall be required to use, a standardized form expressly titled "Certification for Exemption From E-filing" adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice.
If the court finds no good cause for an e-filing exemption, it must issue an order stating specific reasons and requiring the litigant to e-file thereafter.
Court's wording
Judges retain discretion to determine whether good cause is shown. If the court determines that good cause is not shown, the court shall enter an order to that effect stating the specific reasons for the determination and ordering the litigant to e-file thereafter.
The filed document shall be endorsed with the clerk's electronic file mark setting forth, at a minimum, the identification of the court, the clerk, the date, and the time of filing.
Except for motions for summary judgment, which are governed by statute and not subject to this rule, any party that desires to present testimony or other evidence to support or oppose a motion (where authorized by law) should so indicate in the motion or answering memorandum. The matter may then be set for hearing.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Evidence depositions and exhibits must be submitted electronically through the Court's e-file system.
All evidence depositions and exhibits are to be submitted electronically through the Court's efile system.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Jury Trials Assigned to Judge Goffinet
The statement of the case and witness list must be e-filed before the final pretrial.
A statement of the case and a list of witnesses shall be efiled with the Court prior to the final pretrial.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Jury Trials Assigned to Judge Goffinet
Counsel and self-represented litigants must submit proposed orders through Odyssey at least three days before a hearing or bring paper copies to the hearing.
5. Counsel and Self Represented Litigants shall electronically submit proposed Orders through Odyssey at least 3 days prior to said Hearing, or bring paper copies to the Hearing.
Page 1 | Standing Order for All Cases Assigned to Judge Gill
Pleadings, exhibits, and proposed orders must be submitted electronically through the Circuit Clerk's office, unless the requirement has been waived for a self-represented litigant.
17. All pleadings, exhibits and proposed orders are to be submitted electronically through the Circuit Clerk's office; unless as a self represented litigant said requirement has been waived.
Page 2 | 17.
Pleadings, exhibits, and proposed orders must be submitted electronically through the Circuit Clerk's office, except when the requirement has been waived for a self-represented litigant.
All pleadings, exhibits and proposed orders are to be submitted electronically through the Circuit Clerk's office; unless as a self represented litigant said requirement has been waived.
Page 2 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS AND SCHEDULING IN JUDGE SANDERS' PROBATE, CHANCERY, DIVORCE AND FAMILY CASES
Pleadings, motions, and other papers must be filed in person or by mail.
All pleadings, motions, and other papers shall be filed in person or via mail.
Page 8 | RULE 1.14 NO FACSIMILE FILING
Facsimile filing is prohibited.
Facsimile filing is not authorized.
Page 8 | RULE 1.14 NO FACSIMILE FILING
Requests for admission of fact or document genuineness and their responses under Supreme Court Rule 216 must be filed of record.
Requests for admission of fact, requests for admission of the genuineness of documents, and the responses thereto pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 216 are not affected by this rule, and shall be filed of record.
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY, F. Requests for Admission
The specified interrogatories, answers, document discovery, and depositions must not be filed with the clerk.
Interrogatories under Supreme Court Rules 213 and 220, and the answers thereto, discovery of documents and other materials under Supreme Court Rule 214, and depositions under Supreme Court Rules 206 and 207 shall be served with proof of service upon other counsel or parties, but shall not be filed with the clerk of the court.
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY, A. Restrictive Filing of Discovery
Civil-case documents must be electronically filed with the clerk using a Supreme Court of Illinois-approved system unless an exemption applies.
Unless exempt as provided in paragraph (c), all documents in civil cases shall be electronically filed with the clerk of court using an electronic filing system approved by the Supreme Court of Illinois.
Page 30 | Article IX, Rule 9.1(A)–(C)
A Certification for Exemption From E-filing shall be filed with the court-in person or by mail-and include a certification under section 1-109 of the Code of Civil Procedure. The court shall provide, and parties shall be required to use, a standardized form expressly titled "Certification for Exemption From E-filing" adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice.
A Certification for Exemption From E-filing shall be filed with the court-in person or by mail-and include a certification under section 1-109 of the Code of Civil Procedure. The court shall provide, and parties shall be required to use, a standardized form expressly titled "Certification for Exemption From E-filing" adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice.
Page 30 | Article IX, Rule 9.1(C)
Electronic filing is authorized where adopted by a county and approved by the Chief Judge.
Electronic filing shall be authorized as adopted by the various counties and approved by the Chief Judge.
Page 8 | RULE 1.14 NO FACSIMILE FILING
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The proponent must file evidence depositions and exhibits at least 14 days before the final pretrial.
The proponent of any evidence deposition and/or exhibits shall file the same with the Court at least 14 days prior to the final pretrial.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Jury Trials Assigned to Judge Goffinet
Motions in limine must be filed 7 days before the final pretrial.
The deadline to file motions in limine is 7 days prior to the final pretrial.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Jury Trials Assigned to Judge Goffinet
The statement of the case and witness list must be filed before the final pretrial.
A statement of the case and a list of witnesses shall be efiled with the Court prior to the final pretrial.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Jury Trials Assigned to Judge Goffinet
Proposed orders must be submitted through Odyssey at least three days before the hearing unless paper copies are brought to the hearing.
5. Counsel and Self Represented Litigants shall electronically submit proposed Orders through Odyssey at least 3 days prior to said Hearing, or bring paper copies to the Hearing.
Page 1 | Standing Order for All Cases Assigned to Judge Gill
Hearings must be in person unless the court grants prior leave for a remote appearance, and a motion requesting one must be filed at least three days before the hearing.
4. Status hearings, CMCs, other hearings, or trials shall only be permitted via Zoom or telephone, if granted prior leave of court. Any motion requesting such appearance shall be filed at least 3 days prior to said hearing.
Page 1 | Standing Order for All Cases Assigned to Judge Gill
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings that fall on a legal holiday are extended to the next business day of the Court.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Matters returnable on a listed legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
The time to file motions and pleadings is extended to the next business day of the Court when the deadline falls on a listed legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings are extended to the next business day of the Court when applicable under this order.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | Time for Filing Motions and Pleadings
For evidentiary proceedings, parties and attorneys may request remote participation by written motion filed at least two days before the hearing, subject to Judge Gill’s sole discretion.
For evidentiary proceedings, parties and attorneys may submit a request to participate in the hearing remotely, by written motion, filed at least 2 days prior to the hearing. Said requests shall be within the sole discretion of Judge Gill.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Remote Hearings for Judge Gill's Cases
A person without video capability or unable to join using their full name may request audio-only or unnamed remote participation by written motion filed at least one day before the hearing.
Persons without video capabilities, or without the ability to join with a full name, may request to participate in the remote hearing via audio only, or without a full name, by written motion to the Court, filed at least 1 day prior to the hearing.
Page 1 | Standing Order for Remote Hearings for Judge Gill's Cases
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings are extended to the Court’s next business day when they fall on a legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
A party opposing a pre-trial or post-trial motion must submit an answering memorandum stating the reasons for opposition and citing relevant authorities within ten days after the motion is filed.
Any party that opposes such a motion shall within ten days of its filing submit an answering memorandum containing the reasons for opposition together with citations of relevant authorities
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.1(B)
When seeking relief concerning specified discovery materials, the disputed portions must be filed with the clerk contemporaneously with the motion.
If relief is sought concerning any deposition, interrogatory, request for production or inspection, answer to interrogatory, or response to request for production or inspection, copies of the portion of the deposition, interrogatory, request, answer, or response in dispute shall be filed with the clerk contemporaneously with any motion.
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY, B. Relief Involving Discovery Materials
Anticipated portions of discovery materials to be used at trial or needed for a motion must be filed with the clerk at the outset of trial or upon filing the motion.
If interrogatories, requests, answers, responses, or depositions are to be used at trial or are necessary to a motion, the portions to be used shall be filed with the clerk at the outset of the trial or upon filing of the motion, insofar as their use reasonably can be anticipated.
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY, C. Use at Trial or for Motion
Parties must file financial affidavits and pre-mediation questionnaires with the clerk at least seven days before the expedited or initial case management conference.
The parties shall also file financial affidavits and pre-mediation questionnaires with the clerk at least 7 days prior to the expedited or initial case management conference.
Page 19 | Prerequisites to Mediation; Disclosure of Impediments
The mediator must file the report in the case file within fourteen days after the last day of mediation.
The report shall be signed by the mediator and filed in the court file of the case under mediation within fourteen (14) days after the last day of mediation.
Page 27 | J. Completion of Mediation
A document submitted when the clerk's office is closed is file stamped on the next business day the office is open unless the document is rejected.
A document submitted on a day when the clerk's office is not open for business will, unless rejected, be file stamped as filed on the next day the clerk's office is open for business.
Page 31 | D. Timely Filing
Unless another authority sets a time-of-day deadline, a document is timely if submitted before midnight in the court's time zone on its due date.
Unless a statute, rule, or court order requires that a document be filed by a certain time of day, a document is considered timely if submitted before midnight (in the court's time zone) on or before the date on which the document is due.
Page 31 | D. Timely Filing
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings that fall on listed legal holidays are extended to the next business day of the Court.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
The deadline to file motions and pleadings is extended to the Court’s next business day when it falls on a legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
If no objection is raised within five days after submission of a proposed order, the Court may enter it.
If no objection is raised within five (5) days of the submission of the proposed order, the Court may enter the order.
Page 1 | Proposed Orders, Exhibits, and Motions to Continue
The court and specified judicial offices shall be closed on the listed legal holidays in 2026; additional holidays may be added by the Supreme Court and the Chief Judge.
(a) The Circuit Court of the First Judicial Circuit of Illinois shall adjourn, and the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court and other Judicial related offices of the First Judicial Circuit, State of Illinois, shall be closed on the following legal holidays for the year 2026.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
The court and specified offices will be closed on the listed 2025 legal holidays.
(a) The Circuit Court of the First Judicial Circuit of Illinois shall adjourn, and the **Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court and other Judicial related offices** of the First Judicial Circuit, State of Illinois, shall be closed on the following legal holidays for the year **2025**.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Discovery papers not previously in the record that are needed for an appeal must be filed with the circuit clerk for transmittal with the record, after application to and an order from the court.
When documentation of discovery not previously in the record is needed for appeal purposes, upon an application to and order of the court, the necessary discovery papers shall be filed with the clerk of the circuit court for transmittal with the rest of the record on appeal.
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY, D. Unfiled Discovery--Appeals
A party may seek appropriate relief upon showing good cause when a court-approved e-filing system technical failure makes a document untimely.
If a document is untimely due to any court-approved electronic filing system technical failure, the filing party may seek appropriate relief from the court, upon good cause shown.
Page 31 | D.1. Timely Filing
A party may seek appropriate relief upon showing good cause when clerk rejection makes a document untimely.
If a document is rejected by the clerk and is therefore untimely, the filing party may seek appropriate relief from the court, upon good cause shown.
Page 31 | D.2. Timely Filing
The Supreme Court and Chief Judge may add holidays to the listed court holidays.
Additional holidays may be added by the Supreme Court and the Chief Judge.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
After the ten-day period expires, the clerk will refer the motion papers and case file to the court for disposition.
Upon expiration of the 10-day period, the clerk will refer the motion papers and the case file to the court for appropriate disposition.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.1(C)
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Each litigant must receive mailed notice when the case is rescheduled.
Each party litigant shall receive a notice in the mail upon rescheduling.
Page 1 | Postponed Case Categories and Emergency Matters
Each litigant must receive notice by mail when the case is rescheduled.
Each party litigant shall receive a notice in the mail upon rescheduling.
Page 1 | Extension of Postponed Court Dates
The clerk must forward the dismissal order to all attorneys and unrepresented parties of record.
The clerk of the court shall forward a copy of the order of dismissal to all attorneys and unrepresented parties of record.
Page 6 | Rule 1.10 Dismissal for Want of Prosecution
Pre-trial and post-trial motions must be written and served on all parties before filing, except ex parte or emergency motions.
Every pre-trial and post-trial motion shall be in writing and (unless it be an ex parte or emergency motion) shall be served on all parties of record before filing.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.1(A)
Specified interrogatories, answers, document discovery, and depositions must be served with proof of service, must not be filed with the clerk, and must be retained by the serving party as custodian.
Interrogatories under Supreme Court Rules 213 and 220, and the answers thereto, discovery of documents and other materials under Supreme Court Rule 214, and depositions under Supreme Court Rules 206 and 207 shall be served with proof of service upon other counsel or parties, but shall not be filed with the clerk of the court. The party responsible for service of the discovery material shall retain the original and become the custodian.
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY, A. Restrictive Filing of Discovery
A signed, file-marked order to show cause must be personally served on the respondent in the manner of summons, with an appearance set 21 to 40 days after issuance and service at least seven days before the appearance.
A signed and file-marked copy of the order to show cause shall be personally served upon the respondent in the manner of summons requiring an appearance not less than 21 days nor more than 40 days after issuance, and shall be served not less than seven days before the day for appearance.
Page 15 | RULE 4.3 SERVICE
A signed, file-marked copy of the civil contempt judgment must be served on the contemnor, and proof of service must be filed.
A signed, file-marked copy of the judgment shall be served upon the contemnor, and proof of service shall be filed.
Page 15 | RULE 4.7 JUDGMENT OF CONTEMPT
The mediator must serve a copy of the report on all parties.
A copy of said report shall be served by the mediator upon all parties.
Page 27 | J. Completion of Mediation
Each party litigant must receive notice by mail when a case is rescheduled.
Each party litigant shall receive a notice in the mail upon rescheduling.
Page 2 | Cases Set in the First Judicial Circuit Which Have a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed
Filing Fees and Waivers
Service provider costs cannot be credited for time served, substituted with community service, or waived.
WHEREAS, 705 ILCS 135/5-15 provides that service provider costs are not eligible for credit for time served, substitution of community service, or waiver; and
Criminal cases
Page 9 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
Defendants must pay service provider costs to the entity that provided the service.
WHEREAS, 705 ILCS 135/5-15 provides the defendant shall pay service provider costs to the entity that provided the service; and
Criminal cases
Page 9 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
The county circuit clerk is appointed to receive and remit service provider costs, including the listed fees.
The Clerk of the Circuit Court of Williamson County is appointed as the receiver and remitter of service provider costs, which may include, but are not limited to, probation fees, traffic school fees, and drug or alcohol testing fees.
Criminal cases
Page 9 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
A $2.00 Dispute Resolution Fund fee is due from the party initiating a civil action when the first pleading is filed, except in proceedings commenced by or on behalf of a local government unit.
The Clerks of the Circuit Court in each county shall upon entry of this Order, begin to charge and collect a Dispute Resolution Fund fee of TWO DOLLARS ($2.00) in all civil cases except in proceedings commenced by or on behalf of a unit of local government. Such fee shall be paid by the party initiating the action at the time of filing the first pleading.
Civil cases
Page 1 | WHEREFORE IT IS ORDERED
Applications for leave to sue or defend as a poor person must comply with Supreme Court Rule 298.
All applications for leave to sue or defend as a poor person shall be in compliance with Supreme Court Rule 298.
Page 14 | RULE 2.6 PROCEEDINGS IN FORMA PAUPERIS
A prisoner’s application to bring a civil action may be denied after three or more qualifying prior frivolous-action dismissals, unless the prisoner faces imminent danger of serious physical injury.
The application of a prisoner to bring a civil action under this rule may be denied if the prisoner has on three or more prior occasions, while incarcerated or detained in any facility, brought an action that was dismissed on the grounds that it is frivolous as defined in 705 ILCS 105/27.9, unless the prisoner is under imminent danger of serious physical injury.
Page 14 | RULE 2.6 PROCEEDINGS IN FORMA PAUPERIS
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Depositions filed under Supreme Court Rule 414(d) must remain sealed until the court orders them opened.
Depositions filed in accordance with Supreme Court Rule 414(d) (incorporating Rule 207) shall remain sealed until ordered opened by the court.
Page 16 | RULE 6.1 RESTRICTIONS ON FILING PAPERS IN CRIMINAL CASES
The clerk must file and seal the original pre-mediation questionnaires and later send copies to the appointed mediator.
The clerk shall file and seal the original pre-mediation questionnaires, copies of which shall later be sent to the appointed mediator.
Page 19 | Prerequisites to Mediation; Disclosure of Impediments
At the assigned judge’s discretion, previously filed materials subject to the rule may be removed and returned or sealed, and either action must be recorded on the docket.
At the discretion of the judge assigned to a case, previously filed materials which are subject to this rule may either be removed from the file and returned to the party filing them or ordered sealed. In either such event, the judge shall make an appropriate docket entry.
Page 16 | RULE 6.1 RESTRICTIONS ON FILING PAPERS IN CRIMINAL CASES
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Non-evidentiary pre-trial and post-trial motions in civil cases are set for oral argument only when authorized by the presiding judge.
Non-evidentiary pre-trial and post-trial motions in civil cases will only be set for oral argument when authorized by the judge presiding.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.2(A)
There will be no oral argument on the motion papers unless the court orders it.
There will be no oral arguments unless ordered by the court.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.1(C)
Ex parte motions, emergency motions, and motions under stipulations for agreed orders may be presented without a setting.
Ex parte or emergency motions and motions in accordance with stipulations for agreed orders may be presented without a setting.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.3
A party's failure to appear in person or by written brief in connection with a motion is not, by itself, grounds for ruling against that party.
Failure of a party to appear in person or by written brief in connection with any motion will not of itself constitute grounds for ruling against the party.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.2(B)
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Continuances under the order are excluded from the specified speedy-trial computations.
Therefore, such continuances shall be excluded from speedy trial computations contained in section 103-5 of the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 (725 ILCS 5/103-5 (West 2018)) and section 5-601 of the Illinois Juvenile Court Act (705 ILCS 405/5-601 (West 2018)).
Page 1 | Continuances and Speedy Trial Computations
The specified statutory time restrictions are tolled until further order of the Court.
Statutory time restrictions in section 103-5 of the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 and section 5-601 of the Juvenile Court Act shall be tolled until further order of this Court.
Page 1 | Continuances and Speedy Trial Computations
The judge assigned to a criminal or civil case decides whether to continue the trial.
The Chief Judge, First Judicial Circuit, designates the judge assigned to a criminal or civil case to make the determination, to decide, whether a trial is to be continued.
Page 1 | Trial Continuances Due to Social Distancing and Facilities Limitations
When distancing and facilities limitations cause a trial continuance, the assigned judge must find that the limitations necessitated the delay and make a record of the finding.
If a trial is continued due to proper distancing and facilities' limitations causing the continuance, the delay, the judge assigned to that case must find that such limitations necessitate the continuance, the delay, and shall make a record of such finding.
Page 1 | Trial Continuances Due to Social Distancing and Facilities Limitations
All matters set for trial in the First Judicial Circuit are continued for 60 days from March 20, 2020.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the Chief Judge of the First Judicial Circuit of Illinois that all matters set for trial in the First Judicial Circuit of Illinois are continued for a period of 60 days from the entry of M.R. 30370 issued by the Supreme Court of Illinois dated March 20, 2020.
Page 1 | All Matters Set for Trial Continued
Criminal matters set for trial are continued for 60 days from March 20, 2020, and resulting delay is not attributable to the State or defendant for purposes of the statutory speedy-trial provision.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that all criminal matters set for trial in the First Judicial Circuit of Illinois are continued for a period of 60 days from the entry of M.R. 30370 issued by the Supreme Court of Illinois dated March 20, 2020. Any delay resulting from this emergency continuance order shall not be attributable either the State or the defendant for the purposes of section 103-5 of the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 (725 ILCS 5/103-5 (West 2018).
Page 1 | Criminal Matters Set for Trial Continued
Motions to continue must comply with Local Rule 2.4, and failure to comply could result in denial.
All Motions to Continue must comply with Local Rule 2.4. Failure to comply with said Rule could subject the motion being denied.
Page 1 | Proposed Orders, Exhibits, and Motions to Continue
Matters scheduled to be heard on a legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Matters returnable on a legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | Matters Returnable on Legal Holidays
Forcible entry and detainer actions are continued until further order of the court.
All forcible entry and detainer actions are continued generally until further order of the court.
Page 1 | ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER
For purposes of section 5-601, delay covered by the April 3, 2020 emergency continuance order is not attributable to either the State or the juvenile.
Regarding juvenile delinquency proceedings, any delay as stated in the Illinois Supreme Court emergency continuance order entered on April 3, 2020, shall not be attributable to either the State or the juvenile for purposes of section 5-601 of the Illinois Juvenile Court (705 ILCS 405/5-601 (West 2018)) Trial.
Page 1 | Regarding juvenile delinquency proceedings
Chief Judges may continue trials until further order of the Illinois Supreme Court.
The Chief Judges of each circuit may continue trials until further order of this Court.
Page 1 | IN THE MATTER OF COURT OPERATIONS IN THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PURSUANT TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC/IMPACT ON TRIALS
For criminal speedy-trial purposes, delay covered by the April 3, 2020 emergency continuance order is not attributable to either the State or the defendant.
Regarding criminal proceedings, section 103-5 of the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 (725 ILCS 5/103-5 (West 2018) Speedy Trial, any delay as stated in the Illinois Supreme Court emergency continuance order entered on April 3, 2020, shall not be attributable to either the State or the defendant for purposes of 725 ILCS 5/103-5 (West 2018).
Page 1 | Regarding criminal proceedings
A continuance motion based on a cause set out in Supreme Court Rule 231 must strictly comply with that rule to receive consideration by the presiding judge.
A motion for continuance for any cause set out in Supreme Court Rule 231 must comply strictly with Supreme Court Rule 231 to receive consideration of the judge presiding.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.4(A)
A continuance request in a case involving child custody, parental responsibilities, visitation, parenting time, or support must strictly comply with Supreme Court Rule 901.
G. Compliance with Supreme Court Rule 901. In all cases involving child custody, allocation of parental responsibilities, visitation, allocation of parenting time, or support, any request for continuance must strictly comply with the provisions of Supreme Court Rule 901.
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For an emergency continuance motion, the movant must state the nature of the emergency and why the adverse party or attorney could not be contacted before filing.
F. Emergency Motion. If a motion for continuance is filed in an emergency situation, the movant must state the nature of the emergency and the reasons why the adverse party or attorney could not be contacted prior to the filing of the motion.
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Before filing a continuance motion, the movant must try to contact the adverse party and state the party’s position or, if there is no contact or response, provide the court written details of the attempts or nonresponse.
E. Notice to Adverse Party. The attorney or party moving for continuance must attempt to contact the adverse party or his or her attorney prior to filing the motion for continuance. The motion shall state whether the adverse party or attorney agrees or objects to the motion. If the adverse party or attorney is not contacted or does not respond, the movant shall provide the court, in writing, with the details of the attempts to contact the adverse party or attorney or the failure of the adverse party or their attorney to respond.
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Matters returnable on a legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Matters returnable on a legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
A trial continuance cannot be granted solely because an attorney was substituted or added unless good cause is shown by motion and affidavit.
A trial continuance shall not be granted solely upon the ground of substitution or addition of attorneys, except for good cause shown by motion and affidavit.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.4(C)
Agreements by counsel or parties about a continuance motion do not bind the court, and only the court may grant a continuance.
Agreements of Counsel or parties as to a motion to continue shall not be binding on the court. Continuances may be granted only by the court.
Page 12 | Article II. Civil Practice; Rule 2.4(B)
Mediation must be completed within 60 days of assignment absent good cause, and either party may petition for additional time if it is not completed by then.
Mediation shall be completed within sixty (60) days of assignment, except for good cause shown. In the event that mediation is not complete within said sixty (60) days, either party may petition the court for additional time.
Page 26 | Rule 8.1(D) Time for Mediation
Matters scheduled for a listed legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Chambers Communication Rules
Each party must stay in contact with their attorney and keep the attorney and clerk informed of current residence, email, and telephone addresses.
Therefore, each party must stay in contact with his or her attorney and must keep his or her attorney, as well as the clerk, advised of a current residence address, email address and telephone number.
Civil cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS IN FAMILY CASES
Participants with difficulties should call the Judicial Secretary at the listed number.
16. If you have any difficulties, please call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301 Ext. 1256.
Page 2 | 16.
Emergency matters may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Individuals shall contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is to be heard for the purpose of seeking approval from the Court to schedule an emergency matter.
Emergency matters may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Individuals shall contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is to be heard for the purpose of seeking approval from the Court to schedule an emergency matter.
Page 1 | Postponed Case Categories and Emergency Matters
An attorney or litigant unable to appear because of the listed restrictions should contact the county Circuit Clerk.
If you are an attorney or litigant and have a scheduled case, appointment, or are otherwise required to appear at the courthouse in connection with a court case, but are unable to appear because of the above restrictions, please contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is pending.
Page 2 | Travel or Health Exemptions
Individuals seeking to schedule an emergency matter must contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case will be heard to seek court approval.
Emergency matters may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Individuals shall contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is to be heard for the purpose of seeking approval from the Court to schedule an emergency matter.
Page 1 | Extension of Postponed Court Dates
If you are an attorney or litigant and have a scheduled case, appointment, or are otherwise required to appear at the courthouse in connection with a court case, but are unable to appear because of the above restrictions, please contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is pending.
If you are an attorney or litigant and have a scheduled case, appointment, or are otherwise required to appear at the courthouse in connection with a court case, but are unable to appear because of the above restrictions, please contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is pending.
Page 2 | Health and Travel Restrictions
To seek approval to schedule an emergency matter, individuals must contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case will be heard.
Individuals shall contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is to be heard for the purpose of seeking approval from the Court to schedule an emergency matter.
Page 2 | Cases Set in the First Judicial Circuit Which Have a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed
If unable to appear at the courthouse because of the stated restrictions, an attorney or litigant should contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is pending.
If you are an attorney or litigant and have a scheduled case, appointment, or are otherwise required to appear at the courthouse in connection with a court case, but are unable to appear because of the above restrictions, please contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is pending.
Page 3 | Unable to Appear Because of the Above Restrictions
Litigants may contact the county Circuit Clerk with questions about the pending case.
Litigants may contact the Circuit Clerk in the county of the pending case with any questions.
Page 1 | Postponed Case Categories and Emergency Matters
Litigants may contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where their case is pending with questions.
Litigants may contact the Circuit Clerk in the county of the pending case with any questions.
Page 1 | Extension of Postponed Court Dates
For difficulties, call the Judicial Secretary at the listed telephone number.
If you have any difficulties, please call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301 Ext. 1256.
Page 2 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS AND SCHEDULING IN JUDGE SANDERS' PROBATE, CHANCERY, DIVORCE AND FAMILY CASES