Court procedures generally refers to the strict processes and procedures the parties to a civil lawsuit must follow during the pretrial, trial, and posttrial phases of civil litigation. These procedures are usually defined and set forth in detail in the applicable rules of civil procedure, rules of court, and local rules.
In Illinois, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure, as well as the rules set forth by the Illinois Supreme Court and local court rules. These procedures outline the steps for pretrial activities such as filing complaints, serving summons, and conducting discovery. They also dictate the conduct of the trial, including jury selection, presentation of evidence, and courtroom behavior. Posttrial procedures cover motions for a new trial, appeals, and the enforcement of judgments. Adherence to these procedures is crucial for the parties involved, as failure to comply can result in delays, sanctions, or dismissal of the case. It is important for parties to be aware of both state statutes and specific local court rules, as local rules can vary from one jurisdiction to another within Illinois.