Circuit Court of Williamson County, Illinois (1st Judicial Circuit)
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Adjournments
- Trials continued under this order are excluded from the specified speedy-trial computations, and the identified statutory time restrictions are tolled until further order.
- The judge assigned to a criminal or civil case determines whether its trial will be continued.
- When proper distancing and facilities limitations cause a trial continuance, the assigned judge must find that the limitations necessitated the delay and make a record of that finding.
- +19 more
Request must include
Communication
Phone
Chambers
Document Format Requirements3 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Important
Exhibits shall be marked and not use duplicative numbering.
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Petitioners: Numbers with the case number. Example: Ex. 1 25-DC-1
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Respondents: Letters with the case number. Example: Ex. A 25-DC-1
Document Filing Requirements31 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentProposed Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentProposed Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentWritten Order Or Judgment
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentSummons Notice Or Court Order Setting Court Date
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentMotion For Continuance
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
The clerk shall refuse to file any pleading which is not signed and/or accompanied by a proof of service.
DocumentPleading
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
A petition initiating indirect civil contempt proceedings must be verified and specifically identify the allegedly violated order provision, the violation, and the acts required to purge contempt.
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.
DocumentCivil Contempt Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
Before imposing sanctions on a pro se litigant in covered 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.
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentJudgment
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentSworn Petition
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
No terminated mediation shall proceed further unless ordered by the court, but instead shall be returned to the docket for adjudication in the manner prescribed by law.
DocumentMediation
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentMediation Progress Report
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
The mediator shall ===== PAGE 24 ===== immediately advise the trial judge in writing if he or she suspends or terminates mediation for some reason other than agreement or inability to reach agreement, specifying the reason for such termination.
DocumentWritten Notice
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
Promptly after mediation concludes, the mediator must file the Chief Judge’s form with the Circuit Clerk, identifying agreed issues or an unsuccessful conclusion without stating why the parties could not agree.
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.
DocumentMediation Conclusion Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentMediation Final Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
When the parties reach agreement or partial agreement during mediation, the mediator shall provide a written account of the agreement to the parties and attorneys, but not to the court.
DocumentMediation Agreement Account
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
Attorneys seeking appointment in child custody, allocation of parental responsibilities, visitation, and parenting time shall apply in writing to the Chief Judge of the circuit. The application shall set forth all qualifications as set forth herein.
DocumentAttorney Appointment Application
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
The mediator’s written report must designate the agreement status and be signed by the mediator.
The mediator shall report to the court in writing whether or not an agreement was reached by the parties. The report shall designate, "full agreement", "partial agreement" or "no agreement". The report shall be signed by the mediator and filed in the court file of the case under mediation within fourteen (14) days after the last day of mediation. A copy of said report shall be served by the mediator upon all parties.
DocumentMediator Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentMediation Agreement
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentMediator Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
If no agreement is reached, the mediator shall so report without comment or recommendation.
DocumentMediator Report
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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 ===== PAGE 28 ===== the agreement.
DocumentMediator Report
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
An exemption certification must be filed in person or by mail, include a section 1-109 certification, and use the required standardized form.
A Certification for Exemption From E-filing shall be filed with the court-in person or by mail-and include a certification under section 1-109 of the Code of Civil Procedure. The court shall provide, and parties shall be required to use, a standardized form expressly titled "Certification for Exemption From E-filing" adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice.
DocumentCertification For Exemption From E Filing
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Mandatory
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.
DocumentFiled Document
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Important
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.
DocumentMotion Or Answering Memorandum
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026Important
(f) Advise each party that children may be allowed to participate in mediation so long as all parties and the mediator consent in writing.
DocumentConsent
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All pleadings shall accurately reflect that the sale shall be conducted by the Williamson County Circuit Clerk.
DocumentPleadings
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Every such motion shall be accompanied by a proposed order.
DocumentMotion
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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.
DocumentMotion
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Each such motion shall specifically set forth its factual and legal basis.
DocumentMotion
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Counsel shall file a certificate of compliance with discovery orders.
DocumentCertificate
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 2 | 17
Counsel and self-represented litigants must submit proposed orders through Odyssey at least 3 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | Counsel and Self Represented Litigants
Evidence depositions and exhibits must be submitted electronically through the Court's e-file system.
All evidence depositions and exhibits are to be submitted electronically through the Court's efile system.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
The statement of the case and witness list must be e-filed before the final pretrial.
A statement of the case and a list of witnesses shall be efiled with the Court prior to the final pretrial.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
Pleadings, exhibits, and proposed orders must be submitted electronically through the Circuit Clerk's office, unless the requirement has been waived for a self-represented litigant.
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 2 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS AND SCHEDULING IN JUDGE SANDERS' PROBATE, CHANCERY, DIVORCE AND FAMILY CASES
Electronic filing is mandated in civil cases.
Article IX. Mandating Electronic Filing In Civil Cases
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 4 | Article IX. Mandating Electronic Filing In Civil Cases
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.
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Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
Facsimile filing is prohibited.
Rule 1.14 - No Facsimile Filing
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Page 3 | Article I. General Rules of the Circuit
Pleadings, motions, and other papers must be filed in person or by mail; fax filing is prohibited, while electronic 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.
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Page 8 | RULE 1.14 NO FACSIMILE FILING
The specified discovery materials 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.
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Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY
Civil-case documents must be e-filed using a Supreme Court of Illinois-approved system unless an enumerated 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. The following types of documents in civil cases are exempt from electronic filing: 1. Documents filed by a self-represented litigant incarcerated in a local jail or correctional facility at the time of the filing; 2. Wills; 3. Documents filed under the Juvenile Court Act of 1987; 4. Documents filed by a person with a disability, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, whose disability prevents from e-filing; and 5. Documents in a specific case by court order, upon good cause shown by certification. Good cause exists where a self-represented litigant is not able to e-file documents for the following reasons: no computer or Internet access in the home and travel represents a hardship; or a language barrier or low literacy (difficulty reading, writing, or speaking in English). Good cause also exists if the pleading is of a sensitive nature, such as a petition for an order of protection or civil no contact/stalking order.
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Page 30 | Article IX, Rule 9.1(A), (C)
Criminal discovery disclosures covered by the cited rules and statutes may not be filed with the clerk unless the court grants prior leave for good cause.
Disclosures made pursuant to Supreme Court Rules 412 and 413, and Sections 114-9 and 114-10 of the Code of Criminal procedure, shall not be filed with the clerk of the court except with prior leave of court for good cause shown.
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Page 16 | RULE 6.1 RESTRICTIONS ON FILING PAPERS IN CRIMINAL CASES
The certification for exemption from e-filing may be filed in person or by mail.
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.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 30 | Article IX, Rule 9.1(C)
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Proposed orders submitted electronically must be submitted at least 3 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | Counsel and Self Represented Litigants
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
The proponent must file evidence depositions and exhibits at least 14 days before the final pretrial.
The proponent of any evidence deposition and/or exhibits shall file the same with the Court at least 14 days prior to the final pretrial.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR JURY TRIALS ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GOFFINET
Matters returnable on a legal holiday are continued to the Court's next business day.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
The time to file motions and pleadings 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Written arguments or memoranda allowed or directed by the court must be submitted promptly and no later than 30 days afterward, unless the court orders otherwise.
In the event that written argument and/or memoranda are allowed or directed by the court, said written argument or memoranda shall be submitted promptly, no later than 30 days thereafter, unless otherwise ordered by the Court.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 7 | RULE 1.12 PREPARATION OF JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS
Discovery portions reasonably anticipated for use at trial or in a motion must be filed with the clerk at the outset of trial or when the motion is filed, respectively.
If interrogatories, requests, answers, responses, or depositions are to be used at trial or are necessary to a motion, the portions to be used shall be filed with the clerk at the outset of the trial or upon filing of the motion, insofar as their use reasonably can be anticipated.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY
When a motion seeks relief concerning specified discovery materials, the disputed portions must be filed with the clerk at the same time as the motion.
If relief is sought concerning any deposition, interrogatory, request for production or inspection, answer to interrogatory, or response to request for production or inspection, copies of the portion of the deposition, interrogatory, request, answer, or response in dispute shall be filed with the clerk contemporaneously with any motion.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY
The parties must file financial affidavits and pre-mediation questionnaires with the clerk at least 7 days before the expedited or initial case management conference.
The parties shall also file financial affidavits and pre-mediation questionnaires with the clerk at least 7 days prior to the expedited or initial case management conference.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 19 | Article VII. Family Law Procedure/Mediation
The mediator must file the signed report 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 27 | J. Completion of Mediation
Unless rejected, a document submitted when the clerk’s office is closed is file stamped as filed on the next day the office is open.
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 31 | D. Timely Filing
Unless another authority sets a filing time, a document is timely when 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 31 | D. Timely Filing
A person lacking video capability or unable to join under their full name must file a written motion at least one day before the hearing to request audio-only participation or participation without a full name.
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS FOR JUDGE GILL'S CASES
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS FOR JUDGE GILL'S CASES
If no objection is raised within five days after a proposed order is submitted, 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR HEARINGS
Discovery papers needed for an appeal but not already in the record may be filed with the clerk for transmission on appeal only upon application to and order of the court.
When documentation of discovery not previously in the record is needed for appeal purposes, upon an application to and order of the court, the necessary discovery papers shall be filed with the clerk of the circuit court for transmittal with the rest of the record on appeal.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY
A filing party may seek appropriate relief upon good cause if clerk rejection makes a document untimely.
If a document is rejected by the clerk and is therefore untimely, the filing party may seek appropriate relief from the court, upon good cause shown.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 31 | D. Timely Filing
A filing party may seek appropriate relief upon good cause if a court-approved electronic filing system technical failure makes a document untimely.
If a document is untimely due to any court-approved electronic filing system technical failure, the filing party may seek appropriate relief from the court, upon good cause shown.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 31 | D. Timely Filing
A motion requesting permission to appear remotely must be filed at least 3 days before the hearing.
Any motion requesting such appearance shall be filed at least 3 days prior to said hearing.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR ALL CASES ASSIGNED TO JUDGE GILL
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings are extended to the Court’s next business day when they fall on a legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Special Order Legal Holidays
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings that fall on a legal holiday are extended to the next business day of the Court.
The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Special Order Legal Holidays
The deadline to file motions and pleadings is extended to the next business day when it falls on a legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Extension of Time for Filing Motions and Pleadings
An objection to a tendered draft order or judgment must be made within five working days after service, or the draft may be entered immediately.
The draft tendered may be entered forthwith unless objection is made within five workings days after service of the draft.
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Page 7 | RULE 1.12 PREPARATION OF JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS
The Court and specified judicial offices are closed for the listed 2024 legal holidays, and the Supreme Court and Chief Judge may add holidays.
(a) The Circuit Court of the First Judicial Circuit of Illinois shall adjourn, and the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court and other Judicial related offices of the First Judicial Circuit, State of Illinois, shall be closed on the following legal holidays for the year 2024. | January 1 | New Year's Day | Monday | | --- | --- | --- | | January 15 | Martin Luther King, Jr. Day | Monday | | February 12 | Lincoln's Birthday | Monday | | February 19 | Washington's Birthday (Obsvd.) | Monday | | March 29 | Good Friday | Friday | | May 27 | Memorial Day | Monday | | June 19 | Juneteenth Independence Day | Wednesday | | July 4 | Independence Day | Thursday | | September 2 | Labor Day | Monday | | October 14 | Columbus Day (Obsvd.) | Monday | | November 11 | Veterans' Day | Monday | | November 28 | Thanksgiving Day | Thursday | | November 29 | Day Following Thanksgiving Day | Friday | | December 24 | Christmas Eve | Tuesday | | December 25 | Christmas Day | Wednesday | Additional holidays may be added by the Supreme Court and the Chief Judge.
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Page 1 | SPECIAL ORDER LEGAL HOLIDAYS
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings are extended to the Court's next business day when affected by a legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
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Page 1 | (c) Time for filing motions and pleadings
Filing deadlines for motions and pleadings are extended to the Court’s next business day when they fall on a legal holiday.
(c) The time for filing motions and pleadings is to be extended to the next business day of this Court.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | Special Order Legal Holidays
Service and Proof of Service Rules
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 7 | RULE 1.12 PREPARATION OF JUDGMENTS AND ORDERS
Pre-trial and post-trial motions must be 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.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.1(A)
The specified interrogatories, answers, document discovery, and depositions must be served on opposing counsel or parties with proof of service.
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,
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 13 | RULE 2.5 DISCOVERY
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.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 27 | J. Completion of Mediation
Each litigant must receive notice by mail when the case is rescheduled.
Each party litigant shall receive a notice in the mail upon rescheduling.
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Page 2 | Cases Set in the First Judicial Circuit Court Which Have 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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
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.
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Page 1 | Case categories postponed
For a probate case placed on a docket call, the clerk must notify the last known attorney of record, personal representative, or both, as directed by the judge, of the time and place.
Whenever a judge of the circuit court determines that a probate case (decedent's estate or guardianship) has remained inactive for a considerable time, he or she may direct the clerk of the court to place the case on a docket call, and the clerk shall give notice, as directed by the judge, to the last known attorney of record or personal representative, or both, of the time and place of the docket call.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 6 | Article I. General Rules of Circuit; Rule 1.6
The clerk must forward a copy of a 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.
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Page 6 | Article I. General Rules of Circuit; Rule 1.10
Each litigant must receive notice by mail when the case is rescheduled.
Each party litigant shall receive a notice in the mail upon rescheduling.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 1 | Postponed Case Categories
The signed, file-marked order to show cause must be personally served on the respondent as a summons, with the appearance set 21 to 40 days after issuance and service at least seven days before the appearance.
A signed and file-marked copy of the order to show cause shall be personally served upon the respondent in the manner of summons requiring an appearance not less than 21 days nor more than 40 days after issuance, and shall be served not less than seven days before the day for appearance.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 15 | RULE 4.3 SERVICE
A signed, file-marked copy of the civil contempt judgment must be served on the contemnor, and proof of service must be filed.
A signed, file-marked copy of the judgment shall be served upon the contemnor, and proof of service shall be filed.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 15 | RULE 4.7 JUDGMENT OF CONTEMPT
Filing Fees and Waivers
A $2 Dispute Resolution Fund fee applies in civil cases, except proceedings commenced by or on behalf of a local government, and must be paid by the initiating party when filing the first pleading.
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.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | WHEREFORE IT IS ORDERED
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Depositions filed under the cited rule 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.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 16 | RULE 6.1 RESTRICTIONS ON FILING PAPERS IN CRIMINAL CASES
At the assigned judge’s discretion, previously filed materials subject to the rule may be returned to the filing party or sealed, and either action must be noted on the docket.
At the discretion of the judge assigned to a case, previously filed materials which are subject to this rule may either be removed from the file and returned to the party filing them or ordered sealed. In either such event, the judge shall make an appropriate docket entry.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 10, 2026
Page 16 | RULE 6.1 RESTRICTIONS ON FILING PAPERS IN CRIMINAL CASES
The clerk must file and seal the original pre-mediation questionnaires and later send copies to the appointed mediator.
The clerk shall file and seal the original pre-mediation questionnaires, copies of which shall later be sent to the appointed mediator.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 19 | Article VII. Family Law Procedure/Mediation
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
A party opposing a covered motion must submit an answering memorandum stating the reasons for opposition and citing relevant authorities within ten days after the motion is filed.
Any party that opposes such a motion shall within ten days of its filing submit an answering memorandum containing the reasons for opposition together with citations of relevant authorities
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.1(B)
Non-evidentiary pre-trial and post-trial motions may be set for oral argument only when authorized by the presiding judge.
Non-evidentiary pre-trial and post-trial motions in civil cases will only be set for oral argument when authorized by the judge presiding.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.2(A)
When the ten-day response period expires, the clerk will refer the motion papers and case file to the court for disposition.
Upon expiration of the 10-day period, the clerk will refer the motion papers and the case file to the court for appropriate disposition.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.1(C)
A party's failure to appear in person or by written brief in connection with a motion does not, by itself, constitute grounds for ruling against that party.
Failure of a party to appear in person or by written brief in connection with any motion will not of itself constitute grounds for ruling against the party.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.2(B)
Ex parte or emergency motions and motions made 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.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.3
There will be no oral argument on covered motions unless the court orders it.
There will be no oral arguments unless ordered by the court.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.1(C)
If a party indicates an intent to present testimony or other evidence, the matter may be set for hearing.
The matter may then be set for hearing.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.1(D)
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Trials continued under this order are excluded from the specified speedy-trial computations, and the identified statutory time restrictions are tolled until further order.
The Chief Judges of each circuit may continue trials until further order of this Court. 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.
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Page 1 | Trial Continuances and Speedy Trial Computations
When proper distancing and facilities limitations cause a trial continuance, the assigned judge must find that the limitations necessitated the delay and make a record of that finding.
If a trial is continued due to proper distancing and facilities' limitations causing the continuance, the delay, the judge assigned to that case must find that such limitations necessitate the continuance, the delay, and shall make a record of such finding.
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Page 1 | Trial Continuances Due to Social Distancing and Facilities Limitations
Motions to continue must comply with Local Rule 2.4, and failure to comply could result in denial.
All Motions to Continue must comply with Local Rule 2.4. Failure to comply with said Rule could subject the motion being denied.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR HEARINGS
Matters scheduled to be heard on a legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
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Page 1 | Special Order Legal Holidays
Criminal matters set for trial are continued for 60 days from the March 20, 2020 entry of M.R. 30370, and resulting delay is not attributable to the State or the defendant for purposes of section 103-5.
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).
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Page 1 | IT IS FURTHER ORDERED
All matters set for trial in the First Judicial Circuit are continued for 60 days from the March 20, 2020 entry of M.R. 30370.
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.
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Page 1 | IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED
For criminal proceedings, delay resulting from the April 3 emergency continuance order is not attributable to the State or defendant for speedy-trial purposes.
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).
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Page 1 | IN THE MATTER OF COURT OPERATIONS IN THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PURSUANT TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC/IMPACT ON TRIALS
Matters scheduled to be 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.
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Page 1 | Matters Returnable on Legal Holidays
A continuance motion based on a cause listed in Supreme Court Rule 231 must strictly comply with that rule to receive consideration by the presiding judge.
A motion for continuance for any cause set out in Supreme Court Rule 231 must comply strictly with Supreme Court Rule 231 to receive consideration of the judge presiding.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.4(A)
A trial continuance may not be granted solely because attorneys were substituted or added, unless good cause is shown by motion and affidavit.
A trial continuance shall not be granted solely upon the ground of substitution or addition of attorneys, except for good cause shown by motion and affidavit.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.4(C)
Counsel's or the parties' agreement on 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.
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Page 12 | ARTICLE II. CIVIL PRACTICE; RULE 2.4(B)
For an emergency continuance motion, the movant must explain the emergency and why the adverse party could not be contacted beforehand.
If a motion for continuance is filed in an emergency situation, the movant must state the nature of the emergency and the reasons why the adverse party or attorney could not be contacted prior to the filing of the motion.
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Page 13 | Emergency Motion
Before seeking a continuance, the movant must attempt to contact the adverse party, state their position in the motion, and provide written details of unsuccessful contact or nonresponse.
The attorney or party moving for continuance must attempt to contact the adverse party or his or her attorney prior to filing the motion for continuance. The motion shall state whether the adverse party or attorney agrees or objects to the motion. If the adverse party or attorney is not contacted or does not respond, the movant shall provide the court, in writing, with the details of the attempts to contact the adverse party or attorney or the failure of the adverse party or their attorney to respond.
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Page 13 | Notice to Adverse Party
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.
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Page 13 | Compliance with Supreme Court Rule 901
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.
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Page 1 | Administrative Order
The judge assigned to a criminal or civil case determines whether its trial will be continued.
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.
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Page 1 | Trial Continuances Due to Social Distancing and Facilities Limitations
Matters scheduled to return on a legal holiday are continued to the Court's next business day.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
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Page 1 | (b) Matters returnable on legal holidays
Matters scheduled to be heard on a legal holiday are continued to the next business day of the Court.
All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
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Page 1 | Special Order Legal Holidays
If mediation is not complete within 60 days, either party may petition the court for more time.
In the event that mediation is not complete within said sixty (60) days, either party may petition the court for additional time.
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Page 26 | Rule 8.1(D) Time for Mediation
Matters scheduled to return on a legal holiday are continued to the Court’s next business day.
(b) All matters returnable on said legal holidays are to be continued to the next business day of this Court.
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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.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | IN THE MATTER OF COURT OPERATIONS IN THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PURSUANT TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC/IMPACT ON TRIALS
For juvenile delinquency proceedings, delay resulting from the April 3 emergency continuance order is not attributable to the State or juvenile for statutory speedy-trial purposes.
Regarding juvenile delinquency proceedings, any delay as stated in the Illinois Supreme Court emergency continuance order entered on April 3, ===== PAGE 2 ===== 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.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 1 | IN THE MATTER OF COURT OPERATIONS IN THE FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT PURSUANT TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC/IMPACT ON TRIALS
Chambers Communication Rules
Each party must keep their attorney and the clerk informed of their current residence address, email address, and telephone number.
Therefore, each party must stay in contact with his or her attorney and must keep his or her attorney, as well as the clerk, advised of a current residence address, email address and telephone number.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 10, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 1 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS IN FAMILY CASES
An attorney or litigant unable to appear because of the restrictions must 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.
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Emergency matters may be scheduled case by case, and individuals must contact the appropriate county Circuit Clerk to seek court approval.
Emergency matters may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Individuals shall contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is to be heard for the purpose of seeking approval from the Court to schedule an emergency matter.
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Page 1 | Case categories postponed
An attorney or litigant unable to appear because of the listed 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.
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Page 2 | Travel or health exemptions and inability to appear
Emergency matters may be scheduled individually, and individuals must contact the county Circuit Clerk to seek court approval.
Emergency matters may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Individuals shall contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is to be heard for the purpose of seeking approval from the Court to schedule an emergency matter.
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Page 1 | Postponed Case Categories
Attorneys and litigants unable to appear because of the listed 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.
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Page 2 | Courthouse Health Restrictions and Appearance Guidance
People experiencing difficulties may call the Judicial Secretary at the listed number.
If you have any difficulties, please call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301 Ext. 1256.
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Page 2 | 16
Litigants may contact the Circuit Clerk in the county where the case is pending with questions.
Litigants may contact the Circuit Clerk in the county of the pending case with any questions.
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Page 1 | Case categories postponed
For difficulties, call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301 Ext. 1256.
If you have any difficulties, please call the Judicial Secretary at 618-997-1301 Ext. 1256.
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Page 2 | STANDING ORDER FOR REMOTE HEARINGS AND SCHEDULING IN JUDGE SANDERS' PROBATE, CHANCERY, DIVORCE AND FAMILY CASES
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.
We could not confirm this summary. Read the court's wording below.
Page 2 | Cases Set in the First Judicial Circuit Court Which Have a Scheduled Court Date Are Postponed