West Central Reporter

In-person court appearances will be limited and remote appearances encouraged under a temporary order from the Illinois Supreme Court.

The court issued the order following recommendations from a COVID-19 task force, a news release said.

“I would like to thank the Court Operations During COVID-19 Task Force for suggesting these important changes,” Chief Justice Anne Burke said. “As the pandemic continues, the court will continue to seek innovative ways to limit in-person court appearances and promote remote court appearances.”

Under the order, in small claims and consumer actions, defendants will be required to appear within 30 days of service of a summons.

“This will eliminate the requirement of an initial appearance while ensuring defendants are still required to appear in the matter in which they are summoned,” the press release said.

Judges will also consider waiving court fees without holding hearings unless the court determines factual issues need to be resolved.

“We know that there are a variety of ways that we compel people to enter the courthouse in person,” 17th Circuit Chief Judge Eugene Doherty, who served as vice chair of the COVID-19 Task Force, said in the statement. “In light of our current public health concerns, we need to identify ways to accomplish the same things without the necessity of a personal appearance.”