15th Judicial Circuit Court, Stephenson County, Illinois
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Courtesy copies
- Upon request
Exhibits
- When Offered in Evidence
Adjournments
- An agreed or stipulated motion to continue a bench trial requires good cause and, whenever practicable, must be heard at least four days before trial.
- Absent extraordinary circumstances, anyone prejudiced by a filing error is entitled to an order extending the response date or other period for performing an act.
- A motion to continue requires good cause; counsel's agreement does not bind the Court, which may require affidavits from the parties and attorneys.
- +19 more
Request must include
- A motion to continue trial must be filed and notice given at least seven days before trial, and it must be set for hearing at least four days before trial.
- A trial-continuance motion must be filed and noticed at least seven days before trial and set for hearing at least four days before trial.
Communication
Phone
Clerk
Document Format Requirements25 rules
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 size of the type in the body of the text must be no less than 12-point font.
- Font size
- At least 12 points
A document exceeding the Vendor-program file-size limit must be divided into appropriately sized parts, each filed under 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.
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 size of the pages must be 8 ½ by 11 inches.
- Paper size
- Letter
All electronically filed documents must be in PDF format.
- File type
The margins on each side of the page must be a minimum of 1 inch.
- Margins
- At least 1 inch
A civil fee-waiver application must be written on the Illinois Supreme Court form and signed by the applicant or, for a minor or incompetent adult, by a person with knowledge of the facts.
- Application for waiver of court fees
Formatting
- •The application must be in writing
- •The application must use the form adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court
Court's wording
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, and shall be e-filed in accordance with the Rules, unless e-filing is excused by the Court.
The required arrest warning in covered 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 required failure-to-appear 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 financial affidavit form shall comply with the standardized, statewide form available at the Illinois Supreme Court website.
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. An agreed order should be so designated.
All persons must use and display their real names (not aliases, “user,” or “iPhone”) on the Zoom platform to gain entrance to and participate in the hearing;
Documents must use at least 12-point body text, 8½-by-11-inch pages, one-inch minimum margins, and a blank 2-by-2-inch upper-right corner on the first pleading page.
- 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. (2) The size of the pages must be 8 ½ by 11 inches. (3) The margins on each side of the page must be a minimum of 1 inch. (4) 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.
A document exceeding the Vendor’s file-size maximum must be divided into multiple documents, each within 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.
All electronically filed documents must be in PDF format.
- File type
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.
A judge’s notes shall be placed in an envelope, which shall be sealed and marked “Judicial Notes - Impounded Documents,” together with the name of the judge
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.
The required arrest 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.”
The English copy of a will or codicil written in another language must be typewritten.
Court's wording
When seeking to probate a will and/or codicil that is written in a language other than English, the petitioner shall file a typewritten copy of the will and/or codicil in English with the petition and a certification by a qualified translator that the translation is true and correct.
The copy of a handwritten will or codicil filed with a probate petition must be typewritten.
Court's wording
When seeking to probate a handwritten will and/or codicil, the petitioner shall file a typewritten copy of the will and/or codicil with the petition and an affidavit of the petitioner or other person typing the will and/or codicil that the typewritten copy is true and correct to the best of his or her knowledge.
Counsel and SRLs should mark exhibits in advance of trial with exhibit stickers when available. Exhibits should be marked as “Plaintiff’s,” “Petitioner’s,” “Defendant’s,” or “Respondent’s” as appropriate.
Counsel and SRLs should mark trial exhibits in advance with available stickers and the appropriate party designation.
Court's wording
Counsel and SRLs should mark exhibits in advance of trial with exhibit stickers when available. Exhibits should be marked as “Plaintiff’s,” “Petitioner’s,” “Defendant’s,” or “Respondent’s” as appropriate.
Document Filing Requirements206 rules
Transcripts generated from the electronic recording systems shall be prepared in accordance with applicable statutory authority, rule, and regulation and shall be certified.
Additionally, each E-document shall include the case title, case number, and nature of the filing.
- Document
- E-document
Must include
- •Caption
- •Case number
Attorneys shall include their ARDC registration number on all E-documents.
Each E-document shall include the typed name, e-mail address, mailing address, and telephone number of the Filer.
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.
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.
The motion must explain the basis for sealing or impounding the file, record, or document and specify the proposed duration of the sealing
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.
A civil fee-waiver application must be signed by the applicant or, for a minor or incompetent adult, by another person who knows the facts.
Court's wording
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, and shall be e-filed in accordance with the Rules, unless e-filing is excused by the Court.
This Rule 4.1(a) and Rule 4.2 also shall apply to limited scope appearances.
The attorney must seasonably update information contained in the appearance.
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.
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.
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.
Each motion must identify the relief sought and its legal basis, state its factual and legal grounds, and include citations to legal authority 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.
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.
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.
- Document
- Motion for default
Must include
- •Proposed order
Except for the stated date-certain summons circumstance, a plaintiff seeking a default finding must file a written motion that identifies any additional 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.
After a motion is heard without prior notice, the attorney or SRL who obtained the order must serve written notice with the action title and number, judge, 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.
Proof of serving or answering discovery documents shall be filed with the Clerk and shall identify the discovery document being served or answered and contain the case title and number, date served, and the sending and receiving parties.
A request for relief concerning specified discovery must include the relevant portion of the discovery document as an exhibit filed with the Clerk.
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.
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.
A subpoena seeking documents must bear the prescribed legend on its face or have it conspicuously attached, including instructions for compliance by mail, written certification, and when documents may be mailed.
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.
The attorney or SRL receiving or reviewing the materials shall acknowledge that fact by signing a receipt provided by the disclosing party.
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.
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, parties 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.
Covered hearing notices must include the specified arrest-warning language in bold type or 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.”
Unless otherwise directed, the foreclosure plaintiff or the plaintiff’s attorney must prepare the listed sale documents and assist the Court and sheriff in conducting the sale.
Court's wording
In all real estate sales in foreclosure, the plaintiff or attorney for the plaintiff, unless otherwise directed, shall prepare the appropriate documents and otherwise aid the Court and sheriff in carrying out the sale, which documents and services shall include (but not be limited to) the following: (1) Preparation of the publication notice for sale and arranging for publication of the notice as required by law; (2) Preparation of the sheriff’s report of sale to be executed by the sheriff as well as the sheriff’s deed or deeds, if needed; (3) Preparation of the certificate of sale in duplicate to be executed by the sheriff; and (4) Preparation of orders approving the report of sale for entry by the Court, as well as a memorandum of judgment when applicable.
Before a foreclosure sale, the plaintiff or the plaintiff’s attorney must supply the sheriff with a certified sale judgment, a publication certificate, and, when applicable, a certificate showing sale notices were mailed to the parties.
Court's wording
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.
At least 10 days before the conference or as otherwise required by the mediator, each party shall present to the mediator a brief written summary of the case containing a list of issues as to each party.
Within 28 days after the entry of the order of referral, the mediator shall notify the parties in writing of the time, date, and place of the mediation conference.
The summary shall include the facts of the occurrence, opinions on liability, all damages and injury information, and any offers or demands regarding settlement. Names of all participants in the mediation shall be disclosed to the mediator in the summary.
The motion shall set forth, in detail, the facts and circumstances supporting the motion.
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.
When imposing sanctions, the Court shall enter a written judgment order setting forth the factual basis of the finding and specifying the sanctions.
The hearing notice must state the specified failure-to-appear warning, in addition to the hearing time, date, and place.
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.”
An indirect criminal contempt proceeding must be initiated by a verified petition that describes the alleged conduct with particularity.
Court's wording
An indirect criminal contempt proceeding shall be initiated by the filing of a petition for adjudication of indirect criminal contempt. The petition shall be verified and set forth with particularity the nature of the alleged contemptuous conduct.
In actions involving the listed disputes, each party must file a financial affidavit, but a new affidavit is not required before the permanent-relief hearing if one was filed before the temporary-relief hearing and circumstances have not substantially changed.
Court's wording
In all actions in which there is a dispute involving property, temporary or other maintenance, temporary or other child support, or post-high school educational expenses, each party shall file a financial affidavit at least five days before the hearing on the issue(s) or when otherwise ordered by the Court. The financial affidavit form shall comply with the standardized, statewide form available at the Illinois Supreme Court website. If a financial affidavit has been filed before a hearing on temporary relief, an additional financial affidavit need not be filed before the hearing for permanent relief if there has been no substantial change at the time of the final hearing.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Electronic filing is required in all civil cases, subject to stated rule exceptions and possible written orders covering additional case types.
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 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.2 Requirement of Electronic Filing
Electronic filing is mandated in civil case types through the Illinois Supreme Court-authorized EFM.
The Circuit has been approved to accept the electronic filing of documents in civil proceedings. 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 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.1 Authority
Wills and other testamentary documents cannot be filed electronically.
Wills and other testamentary documents shall not be accepted for electronic filing.
Page 15 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.2 Requirement of Electronic Filing
Users must register with the Clerk and the Court’s authorized E-filing Vendor before filing any document electronically.
Before E-filing any document, a user must register with the Clerk and the Court’s authorized E-filing Vendor.
Page 16 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.4 Registration; Authorized Users
Attorneys registering with the Clerk must provide 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 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.4 Registration; Authorized Users
All Filers must register through their Vendor, and registrations identify the source of electronically submitted documents.
All Filers shall be registered through their Vendor. All registrations will be used to identify the source of any document submitted electronically to the Clerk.
Page 16 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.4 Registration; Authorized Users
The Clerk must accept and approve electronic filings submitted 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 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.5 Method of Filing
The E-filing program must not prevent or exclude conventional filing of a pleading or document that must 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 | PART 2. E-FILING; Rule 2.5 Method of Filing
Individual documents in one case may be filed in a single transaction, but each document must be uploaded and titled separately.
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
The Clerk will not accept bulk filings of multiple cases or multiple documents combined in one PDF, except that a law enforcement agency may transmit multiple electronic citations in one 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.
Page 18 | Rule 2.7(g) Bulk Filings
Documents associated with different case numbers must be filed in separate transactions.
Documents with different case numbers must be filed individually in separate transactions.
Page 18 | Rule 2.7(g) Bulk Filings
Documents received by fax may not be filed 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) No Filing by Facsimile
A civil fee-waiver application must be e-filed unless the Court excuses e-filing.
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, 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
Discovery documents generally must not be filed with the Clerk unless the Court orders otherwise; requests to admit and their answers or responses are excepted, and relevant portions must be attached as exhibits when seeking relief.
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. This Rule does not apply to requests to admit facts or the genuineness of documents or the answers or responses to those requests. 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.
Page 33 | Rule 5.4 Discovery Documents
The Clerk must not accept exhibits, reports, or other materials submitted in response to court discovery orders for filing.
The Clerk shall not accept for filing any exhibits, reports, or other materials in response to discovery orders entered by the Court.
Page 34 | Rule 5.5 Discovery in Criminal Cases
Electronic filings may be submitted 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.
Documents received by fax may not be filed 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.
Civil-case filings must be made electronically except as otherwise provided by the local or 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 the authorized e-filing Vendor before e-filing any document.
Before E-filing any document, a user must register with the Clerk and the Court’s authorized E-filing Vendor.
Wills and other testamentary documents cannot be e-filed, and the Clerk may reject electronically filed unapproved case or document types.
Wills and other testamentary documents shall not be accepted for electronic filing. Any unapproved case or document type filed electronically by a Filer may be rejected by the Clerk.
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The transmission date and time generally determine when an e-filing is filed; pleadings received before midnight on an open-office day are filed that day, while filings on a closed-office day are filed the next business day, subject to Rule 2.13.
(a) Transmission Date. 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(a) Transmission Date
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) Filing Fee
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)
The Clerk must set a motion to vacate for hearing within 14 days before the ordering judge, or refer it to the Chief Judge or designee if that judge is unavailable or cannot hear it within 14 days.
The Clerk within 14 days shall set the motion for hearing before the judge who ordered the case, record, or document to be sealed or impounded. If the judge ordering the case, record, or document sealed or impounded is no longer available or cannot hear the motion within the 14 days, the case shall be referred to the Chief Judge or his or her designee for review.
Page 23 | Rule 3.3(f)
A filing deadline that falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or designated holiday is extended 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 being served with 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
An attorney must file a written appearance, either by pleading or otherwise, before addressing the Court.
An attorney for a party shall file a written appearance, by pleading or otherwise, before the attorney addresses the Court.
Page 26 | Rule 4.1 Appearances
An SRL must file a written appearance, by pleading or otherwise, before participating in any hearing.
An SRL shall file a written appearance, by pleading or otherwise, before participating in any hearing before the Court.
Page 26 | Rule 4.1 Appearances
During business hours, a complaint or petition requesting the specified ex parte or emergency relief must be filed with the Clerk before being presented to the Court.
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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Ex Parte and Emergency Motions
The 48-hour deadline for filing proof of service runs from the hearing.
Proof of service shall be filed with the Clerk within 48 hours after the hearing.
Page 32 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Ex Parte and Emergency Motions
Unless the Court orders otherwise, an opposition to a dispositive motion must be filed no later than 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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Dispositive Motions
Dispositive motions must be filed and brought to argument on notice no later than 90 days before trial, subject to the Court's authority to limit or extend the time 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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Dispositive Motions
The receipt or acknowledgment must be filed at the time of trial or other disposition, unless a dispute arises concerning the extent of disclosure.
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.
Page 34 | Rule 5.5 Discovery in Criminal Cases
A directed attorney or SRL must submit the written order within 30 days unless the Court establishes another time.
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
Pretrial documents required by the Court 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
The Clerk must give notice of a pending dismissal at least 30 days before the scheduled dismissal date.
The Clerk shall give notice of the pendency of dismissal not less than 30 days before the date set for dismissal.
Page 39
A party may move to defer mediation 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 | Rule 6.4
The mediator must file a report with the Clerk within 14 days after mediation ends stating whether an agreement was reached, in whole or in part.
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
The respondent may file a written answer specifically denying allegations and asserting affirmative defenses no later than three days before the hearing.
No later than three days before the hearing on the rule to show cause, the respondent may file a written answer denying, with specificity, any of the allegations, together with any affirmative defense.
Page 48 | Rule 7.4 Civil Contempt
The proposed property apportionment statement is due at least five days before the hearing, unless the Court orders otherwise.
If property apportionment is in dispute, the parties, at least five days before the hearing or when otherwise ordered by the Court, shall, in addition to the financial affidavit, submit a statement of proposed property apportionment that includes an itemization of all property claimed as marital and non-marital, a proposed value of each item, a proposed property apportionment, and citation to any authorities relied on by the proponent to support the proposed apportionment.
Page 50 | Rule 8.1 Disclosures Required in Dissolution of Marriage and Family Law Cases
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The request represents that proper notice has been given to the court media liaison, counsel of record, and parties appearing without counsel.
4. 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
The Clerk must serve jury summonses at least 15 days before service begins; regular mail to the listed voter-registration or driver’s-license address is permitted.
The Clerk shall issue and cause to be served a jury summons on all grand jurors and petit jurors at least 15 days before the first day of service. Jury summonses may be served by regular mail to the addresses as listed in the voter registration or driver’s license files.
Page 8 | Rule 1.10(c) Jury Summonses
E-service must comply with Supreme Court Rules 11 and 12, is complete at the Vendor-posted transmission date and time, and is effective on parties registered to receive it.
(b) E-Service. 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(b) E-Service
Documents must be served on parties not registered for e-filing or e-service as otherwise provided by order, rule, or statute.
(e) Service on Parties not Registered. 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(e) Service on Parties not Registered
Documents requiring personal service to confer jurisdiction may not be served electronically and must be served conventionally.
(a) Jurisdiction. Electronic Service does not confer jurisdiction. Therefore, 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(a) Jurisdiction
An attorney must serve copies of the written appearance in the manner 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
An SRL must serve copies of the appearance in the manner 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
A written motion seeking permission to appear remotely must be served as required by Local Rule 5.1, unless an individual court standing order or discretionary case-by-case 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)
A pre-marked exhibit may be used at a remote hearing only if a copy was provided to all other parties and the Court at least one full business day beforehand.
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)(7)
Motion-hearing notice must be given in the manner and to the persons specified by 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(b)(3)
Unless the Court allows otherwise, if the attorney or self-represented litigant did not make a good-faith scheduling effort, hearing notice must be served at least 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(b)(4)
Notice that additional relief is being sought must comply with Supreme Court Rule 105.
Notice that additional relief is being sought shall be given in accordance with S. Ct. R. 105.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1(b)(1)
Except during trial, written notice of a motion hearing must be given to parties who have appeared and are not in default, and to parties whose time to appear has not expired.
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.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1(b)(1)
Unless the Court allows otherwise, when the opposing party does not cooperate after a good-faith scheduling effort, 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(b)(4)
The party must serve 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(b)(2)
A motion-hearing notice sent to any party by regular mail must be mailed at least 14 days before the hearing.
provided, however, that 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(b)(4)
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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Motions for Default
The proposed judgment or order must be served with the motion for default when the plaintiff seeks that relief.
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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Motions for Default
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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Ex Parte and Emergency Motions
The attorney or SRL obtaining an order after a hearing without prior notice must serve the required written notice on the specified parties in the manner described by Supreme Court Rule 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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Ex Parte and Emergency Motions
Filing Fees and Waivers
Statutory filing fees must be paid through the EFM to achieve valid filing status unless waived.
(a) Payment. 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(a) Payment
A pleading must be accompanied by any required filing fee or an application to sue or defend as an indigent person for the Clerk to accept it.
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) Filing Fee
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
One appearance filed for several parties requires one appearance fee, while separate appearances for several parties require 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 for a supplemental-proceeding petition must be paid when the petition is filed.
The required fee shall be paid when the petition is filed.
Page 60 | Rule 9.4(b) Invoking Jurisdiction
A party filing a jury demand must pay the required fee when filing the demand with the petition or claim, or with the answer or other responsive pleading, as applicable.
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.
Page 65 | Rule 9.13 Jury Demand
An opposing party making a jury demand within 30 days after being advised of the petitioner’s or claimant’s waiver must pay the jury fee.
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 66 | Rule 9.13 Jury Demand
One appearance filed for multiple parties incurs one appearance fee; separate appearances 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.
Attorney fees generally may not exceed 33⅓% of the gross settlement absent a supporting sworn affidavit; after an appeal and reviewing-court disposition, fees cannot exceed 50% of recovery.
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.
Statutory filing fees must be paid through an EFM-authorized method 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.
A pleading must be accompanied by any required filing fee or an indigency application for the Clerk to accept it.
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.
The appearance fee is due when the appearance is filed.
The appearance fee shall be paid when the appearance is filed.
A petitioner or claimant must demand a jury and pay the fee when filing the petition or claim; an opposing party must do so with its answer or other responsive pleading.
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.
When an e-filing includes a fee-waiver request under Supreme Court Rule 298, payment is stayed until the Court rules on the request.
(b) Waiver. 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(b) Waiver
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)
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.
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 is not reimbursed if the jury demand 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
When an e-filing includes a Supreme Court Rule 298 fee-waiver request, fee payment is stayed until the Court rules.
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 a request for or objection to extended media coverage.
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.
(d) Courtesy Copies. If requested by the Court, parties shall provide courtesy copies of documents to the Court.
Page 19 | Rule 2.11(d) Courtesy Copies
When practicable, copies of exhibits should be furnished to the Court, opposing counsel, and any opposing SRL no later than when the exhibit is offered in evidence. When practicable, a list of exhibits should be furnished to the Court, opposing counsel, and any opposing SRL no later than the beginning of the hearing.
When practicable, copies of exhibits should be furnished to the Court, opposing counsel, and any opposing SRL no later than when the exhibit is offered in evidence. When practicable, a list of exhibits should be furnished to the Court, opposing counsel, and any opposing SRL no later than the beginning of the hearing.
Parties must provide the Court courtesy copies of documents if the Court requests them.
If requested by the Court, parties shall provide courtesy copies of documents to the Court.
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Filers must ensure electronic 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
The presumption of public access to court files and records may be overcome only by 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) Presumption of Openness
Juvenile files must be impounded subject to the terms of 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) Specific Exceptions
The judge’s notes described in Rule 3.8 must be impounded as provided in that rule.
Judge’s notes as described in Rule 3.8 shall be impounded as described in the Rule.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(9) Specific Exceptions
Presentence investigation reports must be impounded subject to the terms of 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) Specific Exceptions
Reports concerning adjudication of disability and appointment of a guardian must be impounded subject to the terms of 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) Specific Exceptions
Files, records, and documents may be impounded or sealed only by court order, unless a statute, the Manual on Recordkeeping, or the rules provide otherwise.
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) Written Order Required
Proceedings under the Parental Notice of Abortion Act must be sealed pursuant to 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) Specific Exceptions
Adoption files must be impounded subject to the terms of the cited statute.
Adoption files shall be impounded subject to the terms of 750 ILCS 50/18.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(2) Specific Exceptions
Except for the listed exceptions (1), (2), and (3), an impoundment must be limited to the identified record or document.
Except as set forth in exceptions (1), (2), and (3), impoundments shall be limited to the identified record or document:
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c) Specific Exceptions
Mental health records must be impounded subject to the terms of the cited statute.
Mental health records shall be impounded subject to the terms of 740 ILCS 110/1 et seq.
Page 22 | Rule 3.3(c)(6) Specific Exceptions
Fitness reports and psychological or psychiatric evaluations must be impounded subject to the terms of 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) Specific Exceptions
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) Specific Exceptions
A motion to seal or impound must be written, presented to the Court after appropriate notice to all parties, explain its basis, and specify the 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) Procedure for Sealing or Impounding
Financial affidavits and the other documents described in Rule 8.1(c) must be impounded as provided in that rule.
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) Specific Exceptions
The Clerk must impound specified financial, identifying, and sensitive reports upon filing, limiting 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
A sealing or impoundment motion must be written, noticed, explain its basis and proposed duration, and result in a written order specifying scope and duration if granted.
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 or impounding order. 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.
The Clerk must automatically impound filed financial affidavits and specified documents or reports, limiting 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.
Unless an identified exception applies, files, records, or documents may be sealed or impounded 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.
The filer must ensure e-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.
Filing Bundling Requirements
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 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Dispositive Motions
Bulk combined PDFs are prohibited, subject to a law-enforcement citation exception; different 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.
Exhibits should be filed with the motion, but parties are discouraged from attaching previously filed pleadings as exhibits.
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 | Motions and Other Pre-Trial Proceedings
Motion exhibits should be filed with the motion, but parties are discouraged from attaching pleadings already filed.
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
A supporting brief must accompany a dispositive motion; opposition is due within 28 days unless otherwise ordered, and a reply is discretionary and due as the Court directs.
Briefs in support of dispositive motions shall be filed with the motion. 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. Replies to responsive briefs may be allowed in the discretion of the Court and, if allowed, shall be filed within the time allowed by the Court.
The Court may allow a reply to an opposition, and any permitted reply must be filed within the time set by the Court.
Replies to responsive briefs may be allowed in the discretion of the Court and, if allowed, shall be filed within the time allowed by the Court.
Page 32 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Dispositive Motions
The Court may, in its discretion, 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 | Motions and Other Pre-Trial Proceedings
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.
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.
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A motion to continue requires good cause; counsel's agreement does not bind the Court, which may require affidavits from the parties and attorneys.
No motion to continue shall be allowed for other than good cause. Agreements of counsel as to a motion to continue shall not be binding on the Court. The Court may require affidavits of the parties and attorneys.
Page 32 | Rule 5.2 Specific Motions — Motions to Continue
A case-management conference continuance must be set for a date certain for a subsequent conference and made by written order or docket entry.
Continuances. 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 | Continuances
An agreed or stipulated motion to continue a bench trial requires good cause and, whenever 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.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10(a) Requests for Continuances
An agreed or uncontested motion to continue a jury trial 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.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10(a) Requests for Continuances
Only the Court may grant a motion to continue trial.
Only the Court can grant a motion to continue a trial.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10(a) Requests for Continuances
A motion to continue trial must be filed and notice given at least seven days before trial, and it 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(a) Requests for Continuances
Mediation must be completed within seven weeks of the first conference unless extended by court order or party stipulation.
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 | Rule 6.4
A representative seeking an extension or less frequent accountings must file a verified petition stating the reasons, and any granted extension must set a definite next-accounting 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.
Page 65 | Rule 9.12(c) Requests for Extension of Time
Only the Court may grant a trial continuance.
Only the Court can grant a motion to continue a trial.
An agreed or stipulated bench-trial continuance requires good cause and, when practicable, a hearing 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 continued case-management conference must be reset to a definite date 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.
A trial-continuance motion must be filed and noticed at least seven days before trial and 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.
A continuance requires good cause; counsel’s agreement does not bind the Court, which may require affidavits.
No motion to continue shall be allowed for other than good cause. Agreements of counsel as to a motion to continue shall not be binding on the Court. The Court may require affidavits of the parties and attorneys.
A representative seeking a definite extension or less frequent accountings must file a verified petition stating the reasons; a granted extension must set the next accounting 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.
An agreed or uncontested jury-trial continuance is allowed 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.
Absent extraordinary circumstances, anyone prejudiced by a filing error is entitled to an order extending the response date or other period for performing an act.
(c) Filing Errors. 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(c) Filing Errors
The Court may condition a continuance on the moving party paying juror or witness fees, attorneys’ fees, lost wages, or other reasonable expenses associated with continuing trial.
The Court, on its motion or on motion of the party not seeking the continuance, may condition a continuance on the moving party’s payment of juror fees, witness fees, attorneys’ fees, lost wages, and/or other reasonable expenses associated with continuing the trial.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10(b) Conditions; Sanctions
If the non-moving party’s conduct makes a continuance necessary in the interest of justice, the Court may sanction that party under the cited rules.
If justice requires that a trial be continued because of the conduct of the non-moving party, the Court may assess sanctions against the non- moving party under S. Ct. R. 137 and/or S. Ct. R. 219.
Page 37 | Rule 5.10(b) Conditions; Sanctions
Mediation continues while an emergency motion is pending unless the Court orders otherwise or the mediator decides to adjourn it until the motion is resolved.
Mediation shall continue while an emergency motion is pending absent a contrary order of the Court or a decision of the mediator to adjourn pending a disposition of the motion.
Page 42 | Rule 6.4
Chambers Communication Rules
Filers must immediately notify other parties, the Clerk, and the EFM of changes to their name or contact information.
(c) Change of Address. All Filers must immediately notify other parties, the Clerk, and the EFM of any change of name, mailing address, phone or fax number, or e- mail address.
Page 19 | Rule 2.11(c) Change of Address
If the parties do not agree on a mediator within 14 days after the referral order, the plaintiff, plaintiff’s attorney, or an attorney agreed on by all attorneys must notify the Court within the next 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 | Rule 6.4
If a case settles before the final pretrial conference or trial, counsel 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 judge approval is required for admission to Judge Hauser’s online courtroom.
Prior approval from judge needed to be admitted to online courtroom.
Page 1 | Stephenson County
Attorneys and self-represented litigants should not send judges ex parte emails about pending matters unless a judge or court personnel specifically requests them to do so.
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
A party whose witness or party needs an interpreter must coordinate with the Court about obtaining and using the interpreter.
If a party or a party’s witness requires the use of an interpreter, that party shall be responsible for coordinating with the Court how the interpreter will be obtained and involved in the hearing;
Page 29 | Rule 4.4
To have a verbatim record of a telephone conference, arrange it with the Court before the conference; otherwise, no verbatim record will be kept.
Unless arranged with the Court before a telephone conference, no verbatim record will be taken or maintained of any telephone conference conducted pursuant to Rule 4.6(a).
Page 29 | Rule 4.6(b)
Whenever reasonably possible, the attorney or self-represented litigant setting a hearing must make a good-faith effort to coordinate a mutually convenient date and time with the Court and opposing parties; if the Court accepts it, the hearing may be set then.
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. If an attorney or SRL has made this good-faith effort and obtained a mutually convenient time and date acceptable to the Court, the hearing may be set at that time, and notice shall be served accordingly.
Page 30 | Rule 5.1(b)(4)
Once approved, an attorney must advise the Court Administrator of the attorney’s current mediation fee schedule.
Once approved, the attorney must advise the Court Administrator of his or her current mediation fee schedule.
Page 44 | Fee Schedule
The mediator may not discuss mediation issues privately with a party or another person without 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
The attorneys, self-represented litigants, and mediator may not have further communications 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
The parties must promptly contact the mediator to schedule mediation appointments.
The parties shall promptly contact the mediator to schedule appointments.
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 send ex parte emails about pending matters unless a judge or court personnel specifically requests them.
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.
Any person may report a violation of the rule to the Presiding Judge or Chief Judge.
Any person may report a violation of this Rule to the Presiding Judge or the Chief Judge.
Page 9 | Rule 1.14 Decisions Within 60 Days
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
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
Information and assistance regarding remote appearances may be obtained from the Carroll County Circuit Clerk at (815) 244-0230.
Other information and assistance regarding remote appearances can be obtained from the websites identified above and from the Circuit Clerks: Carroll County: (815) 244-0230 JoDaviess County: (815) 777-2295 Lee County: (815) 284-5234 Ogle County: (815) 732-1130 Stephenson County: (815) 235-8266
Page 27 | Rule 4.4(c)(3)
Information and assistance about remote appearances is available from the listed Circuit Clerk offices.
Other information and assistance regarding remote appearances can be obtained from the websites identified above and from the Circuit Clerks: Carroll County: (815) 244-0230 JoDaviess County: (815) 777-2295 Lee County: (815) 284-5234 Ogle County: (815) 732-1130 Stephenson County: (815) 235-8266