Evictions, done by the book.

The order of things

An eviction in Illinois is a court process, not a change of locks. It begins with a written notice that gives a legally set period to pay, fix the problem, or move out. Only after that period runs can a case be filed, and only a judge can order someone out. Self-help, changing locks, removing doors, shutting off utilities, is against the law and turns a strong case into a weak one.

For landlords

The notice has to say the right thing, be served the right way, and give the right amount of time, which depends on the reason. Most cases that go sideways went sideways at the notice. Bring the lease, the ledger, and any written communication; the paperwork decides these cases more often than the argument does.

For tenants who have been served

A notice is not an order to leave. You have the right to be heard, and some defenses are real: improper notice, payment that was refused, conditions the landlord was obliged to fix. Whether any of them apply to you is a short conversation, and it is better had before the court date than after.

What to expect in court

Eviction cases move faster than most civil matters. The first court date is often within weeks of filing. If the case is contested, the judge hears both sides; if an order for possession is entered, the sheriff, not the landlord, carries it out after the period the court sets.

Money claims

Unpaid rent and damages can be claimed in the same case or separately, and which is wiser depends on the facts. That is part of the first conversation.

Notice periods and procedures in this area are set by statute and change from time to time. Nothing here is advice on your situation; that takes a conversation.