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Illinois Small Claims Court Limits
Illinois small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
Court Name: Small Claims Division of Circuit Court
Official Website: https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/self-help/rss-feeds/small-claims/
Filing Fees in Illinois
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $50-200 |
Filing fees vary significantly by county. Cook County (Chicago) fees are higher. Service fees additional.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 10 days before the return date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff
- Certified mail
- Special process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 10 days before the hearing date.
What to Expect at Your Hearing
After filing, you'll typically wait 30-60 days for your hearing date.
Attorneys Allowed: Attorneys are permitted in Illinois small claims court. Many parties choose self-representation.
Appeals
Either party may appeal within 30 days.
Illinois Statute of Limitations
You must file your lawsuit within these time limits from when the dispute occurred:
| Type of Claim | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Written Contract | years |
| Oral Contract | years |
| Property Damage | years |
| Personal Injury | years |
Do I Need a Demand Letter Before Filing?
Sending a demand letter is recommended. Illinois courts favor parties who attempted resolution before litigation.
Create Your Free Demand Letter
Before going to court, try sending a demand letter. It's free, takes 5 minutes, and often resolves disputes without filing.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims court limit in Illinois?
The Illinois small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs, handled by the Circuit Court.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Illinois?
In Illinois, you have 10 years for written contracts and 5 years for oral contracts from the date of breach.
How much does it cost to file small claims in Cook County (Chicago)?
Cook County filing fees are higher than other Illinois counties, typically $100-200. Check with the clerk for current fees.
Can I have a lawyer in Illinois small claims court?
Yes. Attorneys are permitted in Illinois small claims court, though many people represent themselves.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup