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Money & Debt

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Small claims

Small claims cases:

  • Are available statewide in all county circuit courts,
  • Involve amounts of money up to $10,000, and
  • Use special court rules that can help people who are representing themselves.
Small claims basics
Understand the basics of small claims courts.
Guide
Small claims common questions
Learn how small claims cases help people solve disputes involving up to $10,000.
FAQ
How small claims court works
Find out more about the legal moves available to plaintiffs and defendants in small claims cases.
FAQ
Finding legal help for a small claims case
Dive into the reasons why finding a lawyer for a small claims case can be challenging and learn tips for effective self-representation.
FAQ
Small claims court rules
Discover how court rules, general or administrative orders, and standing orders apply to small claims cases in different counties.
FAQ
Local requirements for small claims cases in Northern Illinois
Locate Northern Illinois county court requirements for small claims cases.
FAQ
Local requirements for small claims cases in Central and Southern Illinois
Locate Central and Southern Illinois county court requirements for small claims cases.
FAQ
Small claims complaints
Details about filling out small claims complaint forms, including filing supporting papers, verifications, affidavits, and jury demands.
FAQ
Small claims default judgments
Grasp how default judgment works in small claims cases.
FAQ
Starting a small claims case
Steps to sue a person or business in small claims court for up to $10,000.
How-To
Responding to a small claims case
Explore options available to people who are sued for $10,000 or less in small claims court.
How-To
Small claims complaint
This Easy Form helps you make the forms to sue someone for up to $10,000. It can be used to sue a landlord for a security deposit.
Easy Form
Small claims court
Watch this video to explore one county's small claims court process. Only available in English.
Video