Frequently Asked Questions

Q:      Is there a place in the courthouse to breastfeed in private?

A:        Every courthouse in the First Judicial Circuit is equipped with a lactation room. Ask court staff for more information.

 

Q:       Do I have a warrant for my arrest?

A:        Warrant information cannot be disclosed over the phone.

 

Q:       What is the status of a juvenile case?

A:        Information on juvenile case records are sealed.

 

Q:        When is my court date?

A:        You may call the Office of the Circuit Clerk of the county where your case is filed to find out your court date. You may also be able to find the answer on www.judici.com. After choosing the correct county, search for your name and/or case number.

 

Q:        May I speak directly to the judge?

A:        It would be improper for a judge to speak to a litigant without the other parties available. You may only speak directly to the judge upon filing a written motion with the court of the county where your case is filed, scheduling a court date, and notifying the counsel of the other party (or litigant if pro se). At your court date, you may present your motion and discuss your issue or grievance with the judge hearing your case.

 

Q:        Where do I pay court fines?

A:        Court fines are paid in the Office of the Circuit Clerk of the county where your case is filed. In some counties you may pay your fine online at www.judici.com. After choosing the correct county, search for your name and/or case number. If your fine is eligible to be paid online, a red button labeled Pay Now will appear in the column under Judici E-Pay.

 

Q:        What are the Circuit Clerk’s office hours?

A:        All Offices of the Circuit Clerk in the First Judicial Circuit are open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. Note: Some Circuit Clerk’s offices in the First Judicial Circuit are closed during the noon hour. Please call the clerk’s office in the county where your case is pending for specific information.

 

Q:        Can Circuit Clerk or Judicial Department employees help me with my legal problem?

A:        Employees in the Office of the Circuit Clerk and in the Judicial Department are prohibited from giving legal advice of any kind. They are available to answer questions with respect to electronic filing and the public records of the office.

 

Q:        How do I get copies of court records?

A:        All records that are not sealed by the court are available for viewing by anyone.  Copies are available for a nominal fee. Documents are not available to view online due to the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts policy on electronic access.

 

Q:        Do I need to return my juror questionnaire?

A:        You are required by law to return your juror questionnaire in a timely manner.

 

Q:        Can I be excused from jury duty?

A:        Prospective jurors must submit in writing, or appear in person, requesting to be excused from jury duty. Medical excuses must have a doctor’s note explaining why the individual cannot serve.  The Judge will decide whether to grant or deny the request.  The Office of the Circuit Clerk or the Jury Commissioner will contact you with the Judge’s decision.