Illinois Supreme Court-Approved Instructions, How to File and Present an Eviction Case

Clerk, call the Circuit Clerk to find out if it • If you are evicting the Defendants for a lease
has been filed. If it has been filed, ask the Circuit violation other than nonpayment of rent, bring
Clerk how to get a copy. any documents, photographs, or other evidence
• If the sheriff mails the Eviction Summons with showing that the Defendants committed the
the completed Affidavit of Service of Eviction lease violation; AND
Summons & Eviction Complaint to you, e-file the • Any other evidence or witnesses that you feel
Affidavit of Service of Eviction Summons & may be important to your case.
Eviction Complaint. If you have an e-filing
exemption, make a copy for yourself and file the o Get to the courthouse at least 30 minutes early.
Affidavit of Service of Eviction Summons & o Go to the courtroom number listed on your court
Eviction Complaint with the Circuit Clerk and form.
have the Circuit Clerk stamp your copy. o Check in with the courtroom staff and wait for your
name and case number to be called.
STEP 4: GO TO COURT o When your case is called, approach the bench
Get ready for your court date. (which is where the judge sits), introduce yourself
and give the Defendants an opportunity to introduce
Make sure you know how to attend themselves.
your court date. o If your court date is by phone or video:
Your court date could be in person, by phone or • Make sure to have the call-in or login information
by video. If it is by phone or video, it is called a for your court date and make sure your
“Remote Appearance.” Call the Circuit Clerk or technology is working.
visit their website for more information. To find • Follow the instructions on the court notice you
the phone number for your Circuit Clerk, visit received. Call the Circuit Clerk or Circuit Court