Planning for Small Claims in Illinois requires a clear understanding of both mandatory government fees and discretionary service costs. In 2025, individuals pursuing this legal action typically encounter an average total investment of $3,510.
Compared to the United States national average of $5,000, legal costs in Illinois are30% lower than the average.
The initial barrier to entry in the Illinois court system begins with the mandatory filing fees. For Small Claims, these non-refundable charges range between $99 and $121 depending on the specific county and local surcharges.
Based on verified jurisdictional data
Avg. Attorney Rate
$325/hour
Estimated Total
Disclaimer: This is a rough estimate based on Illinois averages. Actual costs vary by county and specific circumstances.
Illinois State Law Overview
90 days in Illinois before filing
6 months separation required (can be waived by agreement)
Illinois is an equitable distribution state. The state has detailed statutory guidelines for maintenance (alimony) based on income and length of marriage. Illinois also requires financial disclosures and has unique provisions for retirement account division.
The costs provided are estimates based on historical data and local fee structures. Legal fees vary by complexity and attorney experience. This site does not provide legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by using this tool.
Prepare and file the petition with the local Illinois court.
Exchange of information and legal evidence between parties.
Mandatory or voluntary negotiation to reach an agreement.
Final court hearing and issuance of legal decree.
The cost of Small Claims in Illinois can be significantly reduced by following these strategic steps:
Compare live 2025 jurisdictional rates from neighboring states.
Localized costs can vary by county and municipal jurisdiction. Browse Small Claims data for major cities across Illinois:
Reviewed by Research Team
Last Verified: 2025