Livingston County Small Claims Court, Illinois


What Happens at a Small Claims Court Trial

At a trial in front of a judge, the court determines the facts of the case after listening to the evidence provided by both the plaintiff and defendant. The court will also listen to any witness testimony and exhibits (documents) provided by either side. Plaintiffs present their side of the case first. The defendant presents their case after the plaintiff has concluded their presentation. It is imperative that you speak slowly and clearly for the judge to be able to understand your side of the case. It is normal for all people to be nervous when speaking in public (let alone in front of a judge) so it may be helpful to practice talking about your case in front of another person (spouse, friend, neighbor).

Beginning a Livingston County Small Claims Court Case

Prior to a party filing a case, you are encouraged to contact the defendant by drafting and sending a demand letter. A demand letter is a written summary describing the circumstances of the plaintiff’s claim and explains why the plaintiff should be awarded the money. The demand letter is recommended because resolving a case through small claims court (even though quicker and simpler than a regular civil case) still takes time. Additionally, collection of funds after winning a judgment is not a guarantee. Drafting and sending a demand letter allows for both parties to explore the possibility of a settlement even before a case is filed. Additionally, putting down your case in clear words is something a plaintiff will have to do anyways when a complaint is filed (and certainly done in preparation for the trial).

Is an Attorney Able to Represent Me in Small Claims Court?

You can represent yourself in small claims court or hire an attorney to represent you. But, corporate entities that are the plaintiffs are required to be represented by an attorney.

Who can sue in small claims court?

Any individual or corporation doing business in Illinois can both sue and be sued in small claims court. If an individual is under the age of majority (18), the court may appoint a guardian. A corporation is not required to be represented by an attorney in small claims court. However, if a corporation is sued, it can be represented by certain officials at the company including an officer, manager, or registered agent.

What County Should a Small Claims Court Case be filed in?

The law in Illinois mandates that a case be filed in the county where (1.) one of the defendants live or (2.) the county where the incident or transaction involved in the case occurred. For example, if the case involved property damage, the case could be filed in the county where the property is located.

Does a Judge or Jury hear my case in Livingston County Small Claims Court?

Livingston County allows for a small claims court case to be either a bench (judge) or jury trial. You are encouraged to consult with an attorney prior to requesting a jury trial. A jury trial (which can be in front of six or twelve jurors) is highly complex and requires significantly more preparation than a trial in front of a judge. Requesting a jury trial also has additional costs for the party making the request.

Small Claims Court Livingston County

Livingston County Small Claims Court
Livingston County Small Claims Court
Small claims court in Livingston County is a unique type of court where a plaintiff can file a case in an amount of $10,000 or less. Rules and procedures for small claims court have been simplified to allow cases to be tried faster and by people who are not attorneys.

After the Small Claims Court Hearing

If the court finds for the plaintiff, the court is able to issue a judgment which awards monetary damages to the plaintiff. Either party is able to appeal the judgment issued by the court (which must be filed within thirty days of the judgment being entered by the court.

Filing a Small Claims Court Case

The plaintiff needs to file a document called a complaint with the court clerk. A blank complaint can be obtained through the court clerk’s office which is located inside of the courthouse. The party that files the complaint is called the plaintiff. The party that the plaintiff is trying to recover money from is called the defendant.

What Types of Cases are handled in Livingston County Small Claims Court?

Illinois restricts the types of cases that can be filed in small claims court to the following:

  • breach of contract
  • property damage
  • personal injury
  • evictions
  • repossession of personal property leased or purchased on credit
  • garnishment case against a debtor

The most amount of money that a court can award in small claims court is $10,000 (plus court costs and fees).

Service of a Livingston County Small Claims Court Defendant

After filing the complaint, the plaintiff needs to arrange for it to be served. If the party is an individual, service is easy. However, it can be more difficult finding a way to serve a corporate entity. Illinois allows for service of a corporate entity on the corporation’s office or registered agent. The Illinois Secretary of State website has additional information to allow you to search for addresses related to corporate entities and registered agents.

Small Claims Court Trial Preparation

The key to preparing a case for trial is to be able to explain your side of the case in a way that is easy for the judge (or jury) to understand. Bring documents, photographs, contracts, receipts, or anything else that supports your position. It is recommended to prepare a short chronology of events or description of all of the facts surrounding your case. Dates, times, and monetary values are extremely important details for the court to take note of. If there are any people who observed anything in your case, it is important to invite them to court to provide testimony at the trial. Ensure the witness is aware of the exact date, time, and location of your small claims court case. If the witness refuses to come to court, you will need to prepare and serve a subpoena for the witness’s attendance.

Small Claims Court Locations for Livingston County

Small Claims Court cases are heard at:

Livingston County Courthouse
Law & Justice Cener
110 N. Main Street
Pontiac, IL 61764

The court’s website is here. The circuit court clerk takes care of all documents and files for court cases. The circuit clerk’s address is:

110 N. Main St.
Pontiac, Illinois 61764-0320

The clerk’s phone number for the court is: 815-844-2602
The clerk’s fax number for the court is: 815-844-2322