Many people wonder exactly how to sue in Illinois small claims court. The procedure isn’t all that difficult; in fact, small claims court was created in order to make it possible for the average person to file a lawsuit without great effort or expense.
There are limitations, however, on what can be done in Illinois small claims court. First of all, your lawsuit can only demand money. If you are demanding specific performance–for example, you want to force a contractor to finish a job you’ve already paid for–you can’t use small claims court. Also, the amount must be $10,000 or below.
If these conditions are fulfilled, then you may well be eligible. You don’t have to hire an attorney, but you would be wise to do so. You still have to follow all the rules of the law. The court clerk can help provide you with paperwork, etc., but cannot provide legal advice–which you may well need. Finally, be sure to sue in the proper venue, which is generally the courthouse in the county in which the defendant, i.e. The person you are suing, resides.