Cook County Small Claims Court
Small Claims Court (Circuit Court) • Population: 5,275,541
Courthouse Information
Courthouse
Richard J. Daley Center
Address
50 W Washington St, Room 601, Chicago, IL 60602
Phone
(312) 603-5030Court Website
https://www.illinoiscourts.govLocal Tips
- Pro Se Small Claims Court is on the 6th floor, Room 601
- Arrive early — security lines can be long during morning hours
- Free mediation services are available before your hearing
How to File in Cook County
Determine if your case qualifies for Illinois small claims court (up to $10,000)
Send a written demand letter to the other party
File your claim at the Cook County courthouse or online through the Small Claims Court (Circuit Court)
Serve the defendant with official notice of the lawsuit
Prepare your evidence, documents, and witnesses
Attend the in-person hearing and present your case
Statute of Limitations in Illinois
Important Rules in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
To file a small claims case in Cook County, Illinois, visit your local courthouse at 50 W Washington St, Room 601, Chicago, IL 60602 or the Small Claims Court (Circuit Court) website. You'll need to fill out the claim form, pay the filing fee ($40 - $175), and serve the defendant. The maximum claim amount is $10,000.
The maximum you can sue for in Illinois small claims court is $10,000. This limit applies to all counties including Cook County.
In Illinois, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in small claims court. While you can represent yourself in Cook County, you may choose to hire a lawyer for your case.
From filing to hearing, a small claims case in Illinois typically takes 30-90 days. Timelines in Cook County may vary depending on court schedules.
Other Counties in Illinois
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