***This article has been updated from the version posted on May 29th, 2020***
Actions Taken by the Circuit Court of Cook County
In General
Effective July 6, 2020, the Circuit Court of Cook County will begin hearing all matters in all Districts and Divisions with the exception of jury trials. Unless otherwise ordered, all attorneys and self-represented litigants shall be permitted to participate in court hearings by video or teleconference.
Except for good cause shown, participants in litigation shall not be penalized if discovery compliance is delayed for reasons relating to the COVID-19 crisis. Where it is not reasonably possible to conduct an oral deposition for reasons related to COVID-19, the parties should use their best efforts to postpone that deposition by agreement and/or stipulation for a period not to exceed 60 days.
Read MoreMortgage Foreclosure and Evictions
All residential real estate eviction actions are stayed through July 31, 2020 unless a tenant poses a direct threat to the health and safety of other tenants, an immediate and severe risk to property, or a violation of any applicable building code, health ordinance, or similar regulation.
What Does that Mean for My Case?
For many civil cases, currently scheduled hearings will begin to occur via video or telephone conference starting on July 6, 2020. Jury trials will be suspended until further notice.
HMB Legal Counsel will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves. The ongoing issues related to the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) have had and will continue to have a significant impact on individuals, families, businesses and markets. Visit our collection of resources providing guidance during these fast-changing circumstances. Please reach out to your lead team member to answer specific questions.