Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Illinois

Re: Representing Myself

You must go to the Court where your case is pending and ask the clerk to give you the forms for Appearance. Pay a fee and file your appearance. If a jury demand has not been made by the plaintiff, you have the opportunity to make a jury demand--for an additional fee.

If the case pending against you is for a value more than $5000, you must also file an answer to the complaint filed against you. Illinois Law requires that you either admit, deny or say I don't know (requires an affidavit) in response to each paragraph of the complaint against you. When you file your response you also have the opportunity to make any counter claims against the plaintiff you feel is appropriate and you must also file any and all affirmative defenses you may be entitled to.