Circuit Court of Union County, Illinois (1st Judicial Circuit)
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Adjournments
- Matters scheduled to return on a legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
- Matters scheduled for a legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
- Matters returnable on a legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
- +17 more
Request must include
Communication
Phone
Chambers
Document Format Requirements2 rules
Respondents: Letters with the case number. Example: Ex. A 25-DC-1
Petitioners: Numbers with the case number. Example: Ex. 1 25-DC-1
Document Filing Requirements36 rules
All pleadings shall accurately reflect that the sale shall be conducted by the Williamson County Circuit Clerk.
A statement of the case and a list of witnesses shall be efiled with the Court prior to the final pretrial.
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.
If there is no applicable Standing Order, you must ask the judge presiding over the case for permission to appear remotely, in a written motion.
Every such motion shall be accompanied by a proposed order.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Proposed order
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.
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 petition, which must be verified and specify the allegedly violated order provision, the violation, and the acts required to purge 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.
Before imposing sanctions on a pro se litigant in qualifying civil contempt proceedings, the court must determine willfulness and provide contempt notice and an opportunity to complete a financial affidavit on Chief Judge-approved forms.
Court's wording
In civil contempt proceedings involving the non-payment of child support, or in any other type of cases as required in the discretion of the court, prior to the imposition of sanctions against a pro se litigant, the court shall determine whether the non-payment of was willful. The court shall provide the pro se litigant with a notice regarding contempt and an opportunity to complete a financial affidavit. The notice and affidavit will be on forms approved by the Chief Judge.
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.
Counsel shall file a certificate of compliance with discovery orders.
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.
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.
Prior to the commencement of mediation, all participants in the mediation shall sign the confidentiality agreement prescribed by these rules.
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.
The post-mediation report must use the Chief Judge's form, state agreed issues or unsuccessful conclusion, and omit the reasons the parties could not agree.
Court's wording
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.
Verification of attendance shall be submitted to the Office of the Chief Circuit Judge at the time of attendance or upon request.
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.
When specified parenting issues are disputed, all parties must attend and complete an approved parenting-education program and provide proof of attendance to the court.
Court's wording
Pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 924, each court shall require strict compliance. 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.
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 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 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".
If no agreement is reached, the mediator shall so report without comment or recommendation.
If the parties reach a partial agreement, the report must identify resolved and unresolved claims and who will complete and submit documents for the resolved claims.
Court's wording
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 court must provide, and parties must use, the adopted standardized form titled “Certification for Exemption From E-filing.”
Court's wording
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.
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.
Exhibits shall be marked and not use duplicative numbering.
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.
No later than three days prior to the hearing, the respondent may file a written answer denying with specificity any allegations of the petition and setting out any affirmative defenses.
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.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
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
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.
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
Counsel and self-represented litigants must submit proposed orders through Odyssey at least three days before the hearing or bring paper copies to the hearing.
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 | Proposed orders
The statement of the case and witness list must be filed electronically with the Court.
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
Evidence depositions and exhibits must be submitted electronically through the Court's efile 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 proponent must provide the Court a paper copy of any exhibit requested for the jury during deliberations.
The proponent, of any exhibit requested to go to the jury during deliberations, shall provide the Court a paper copy of the same.
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
Pleadings, motions, and other papers may be filed in person or by mail; fax filing is prohibited, and e-filing is authorized only as adopted by a county and approved by the Chief Judge.
All pleadings, motions, and other papers shall be filed in person or via mail. Facsimile filing is not authorized. 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
Civil-case documents must be electronically filed using a Supreme Court-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)
A certification seeking exemption from e-filing must be filed in person or by mail and include a section 1-109 certification.
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.
Page 30 | Article IX, Rule 9.1(C)
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The filing deadline for motions and pleadings that falls on a legal holiday is extended to the Court’s next business day.
(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
The time to file motions and pleadings is 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
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings that fall on a legal holiday are extended to the Court’s next business day.
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
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 participation or participation without a full name 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 that fall on 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
Proposed orders submitted electronically must be submitted at least three days before the hearing; paper copies may instead be brought to the hearing.
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 | Proposed orders
A motion requesting a remote appearance must be filed at least three days before the hearing.
Any motion requesting such appearance shall be filed at least 3 days prior to said hearing.
Page 1 | In-person appearances and remote appearance requests
The proponent must file evidence depositions and exhibits with the Court 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 will be argued at the final pretrial.
All motions in limine will be argued at the final pretrial.
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
Requests for daily transcripts must be made at least 14 days before the first day of jury selection.
Requests for daily transcripts must be made not less than 14 days prior to the first day of jury selection.
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
Motions in limine must be filed at least 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
A party opposing a pre-trial or post-trial motion must submit an answering memorandum within ten days of filing, stating the reasons for opposition and citing relevant authorities.
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 | RULE 2.1 PRE-TRIAL AND POST-TRIAL MOTIONS
Unless mediation has already ended, the mediator must file a general progress report with the Circuit Clerk before the continued case management conference.
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.
Page 24 | Article VII. Family Law Procedure/Mediation
Promptly after mediation concludes, the mediator must file the Chief Judge's report form with the Circuit Clerk, identifying agreed issues or stating that mediation concluded unsuccessfully.
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.
Page 24 | Article VII. Family Law Procedure/Mediation
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 | Article VIII. Mediation - Civil Actions, J. Completion of Mediation
A document submitted when the clerk’s office is closed will, unless rejected, be file stamped with the next day the office is open as its filing date.
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 a statute, rule, or court order specifies another time, 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 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
The filing time for motions and pleadings is 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
Circuit clerk offices are generally open Monday through Friday, with specified holiday and emergency closures and different hours depending on county population.
Offices of the circuit clerk shall be open Monday through Friday of each week except on state legal holidays or days celebrated as such, or when court is closed by the presiding judge of the county because of natural causes or other hazards creating an emergency. In counties having a population of 25,000 or more, office hours shall be from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. In counties having a population of less than 25,000, office hours shall be from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Page 8 | Rule 1.13 - Circuit Clerk Office Hours and Holidays
A respondent may file a written answer no later than three days before the hearing, specifically denying petition allegations and stating affirmative defenses.
No later than three days prior to the hearing, the respondent may file a written answer denying with specificity any allegations of the petition and setting out any affirmative defenses.
Page 15 | RULE 4.4 ANSWER
A party whose document is untimely because the clerk rejected it may seek appropriate relief upon a showing of good cause.
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. Timely Filing
A party whose document is untimely because of a technical failure in a court-approved electronic filing system may seek appropriate relief upon a showing of good cause.
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. Timely Filing
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.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Standing Order for Hearings — Judge Sanders' Cases
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 | Case categories postponed
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
The draft written order or judgment must be served on opposing counsel, and proof of service must accompany its presentation to the court.
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.
Page 7 | Rule 1.12 - Preparation of Judgments and Orders
Pre-trial and post-trial motions must be written and served on all parties of record 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 | RULE 2.1 PRE-TRIAL AND POST-TRIAL MOTIONS
The clerk must refuse to file a pleading that is unsigned or lacks proof of service.
The clerk shall refuse to file any pleading which is not signed and/or accompanied by a proof of service.
Page 12 | RULE 2.1 PRE-TRIAL AND POST-TRIAL MOTIONS
Specified interrogatories, answers, document discovery, and depositions must be served with proof of service on other counsel or parties and 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
A signed, file-marked 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
A signed, file-marked order to show cause must be personally served on the respondent 21 to 40 days after issuance and at least seven days before the appearance date.
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
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 | Article VIII. Mediation - Civil Actions, J. Completion of Mediation
Each party litigant must receive a mailed notice when the case is rescheduled.
Each party litigant shall receive a notice in the mail upon rescheduling.
Page 2 | Cases with a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed
Litigants must ensure their mailing addresses are current.
Litigants are directed to ensure that their mailing addresses are updated and current.
Page 1 | Case categories postponed
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 Order
After entry of a Mediation Order appointing a mediator, the Circuit Clerk must send the order and specified case materials to the mediator by mail or fax.
a. Mail or fax a copy of the Order to the mediator together with copies of the following: b. Record sheets and pleadings in dispute, and c. Financial affidavits and pre-mediation questionnaires, if any.
Page 20 | Notification by Circuit Clerk; Review by Mediator
Litigants must ensure their mailing addresses are current.
Litigants are directed to ensure that their mailing addresses are updated and current.
Page 2 | Cases with a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed
Filing Fees and Waivers
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 unit of local government.
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.
Page 1 | WHEREFORE IT IS ORDERED:
The defendant must pay service-provider costs to the entity that provided the service.
705 ILCS 135/5-15 provides the defendant shall pay service provider costs to the entity that provided the service;
Criminal cases
Page 3 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
The Johnson County Circuit Clerk is appointed to receive and remit service-provider costs, including specified fees.
The Clerk of the Circuit Court of Johnson 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 3 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
Service-provider costs are not eligible for credit for time served, substitution of community service, or waiver.
705 ILCS 135/5-15 provides that service provider costs are not eligible for credit for time served, substitution of community service, or waiver;
Criminal cases
Page 3 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
The Massac County Circuit Clerk is appointed to receive and remit service-provider costs, including specified fees.
The Clerk of the Circuit Court of Massac 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 4 | CIRCUIT CLERK APPOINTED AS RECEIVER AND REMITTER OF SERVICE PROVIDER COSTS
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Depositions filed under the specified rules 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 copies must later be sent 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, with an appropriate docket entry in either event.
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
After the ten-day period expires, the clerk refers the motion papers and case file to the court, and there is no oral argument unless the court orders it.
Upon expiration of the 10-day period, the clerk will refer the motion papers and the case file to the court for appropriate disposition. There will be no oral arguments unless ordered by the court.
Page 12 | RULE 2.1 PRE-TRIAL AND POST-TRIAL MOTIONS
A non-evidentiary pre-trial or post-trial motion in a civil case may be set for oral argument only if the presiding judge authorizes it.
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 | RULE 2.2 ORAL ARGUMENT OF MOTIONS AND APPEARANCES
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 | RULE 2.3 EX PARTE, EMERGENCY, AND STIPULATED MOTIONS
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Matters scheduled to return 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
Matters scheduled to return 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 scheduled for a legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
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 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Continuances under the order are excluded from the specified speedy-trial computations, and the statutory time restrictions are tolled until further order.
The continuances occasioned by this Order serve the ends of justice and outweigh the best interests of the public and defendants in a speedy trial. 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)). 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 | Trial Continuances and Speedy-Trial Computations
The judge assigned to a criminal or civil case decides whether to continue a trial and, when distancing or facility limitations necessitate the continuance, must make that finding and put it on the record.
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. 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 Distancing and Facility Limitations
A continuance motion based on a cause set out in Supreme Court Rule 231 must strictly comply with that rule to receive consideration.
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 | RULE 2.4 MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
Substitution or addition of attorneys alone is not grounds for a trial continuance, 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 | RULE 2.4 MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
Counsel's or the parties' agreement to a continuance motion does not bind the court; 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 | RULE 2.4 MOTIONS FOR CONTINUANCE
Continuance requests in cases involving custody, parental responsibilities, visitation, parenting time, or support must strictly comply 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.
Page 13 | G. Compliance with Supreme Court Rule 901
An emergency continuance motion must state the nature of the emergency and why the adverse party or attorney could not be contacted before filing.
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.
Page 13 | F. Emergency Motion
Before filing a continuance motion, the movant must attempt to contact the adverse party, state that party’s position, and provide the court written details if contact is unsuccessful or there is no response.
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.
Page 13 | E. Notice to Adverse Party
Criminal matters set for trial are continued for 60 days from the March 20, 2020 Supreme Court order, and the resulting delay is not attributable to the State or the defendant for purposes of the specified speedy-trial statute.
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 | IT IS FURTHER ORDERED
All matters set for trial are continued for 60 days from the entry of the March 20, 2020 Supreme Court order.
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 | IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED
Delay resulting from the April 3, 2020 emergency continuance order is not attributable to either the State or the juvenile for purposes of section 5-601.
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
Delay resulting from the April 3, 2020 emergency continuance order is not attributable to either the State or the defendant for purposes of the speedy-trial statute.
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
All motions to continue must comply with Local Rule 2.4; noncompliance 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.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Standing Order for Hearings — Judge Sanders' Cases
Forcible entry and detainer actions are continued generally until further court order.
All forcible entry and detainer actions are continued generally until further order of the court.
Page 1 | ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER
Mediation must be completed within 60 days of assignment unless good cause is shown, 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 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
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
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 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Chambers Communication Rules
Individuals seeking to schedule an emergency matter must contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case will be heard to obtain Court approval.
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 | Case categories postponed
Individuals seeking to schedule an emergency matter must contact the Circuit Clerk to obtain the Court’s 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 Order
An attorney or litigant unable to appear because of the stated travel or health restrictions 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 2 | Travel and health restrictions; inability to appear
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 | Travel or Health Exemptions
Call the Judicial Secretary at the listed number if you have difficulties with the remote-hearing process.
16. If you have any difficulties, please call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301 Ext. 1256.
Page 2
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 with a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed
Attorneys and litigants unable to appear at the courthouse because of the restrictions 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
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 | Case categories postponed
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 Order
For difficulties, call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301, extension 1256.
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
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 2 | Cases with a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed