Official Illinois Court Access
Illinois Public Court Records
Start with Illinois trial court case lookup for the filing county, then use the Circuit Clerk for files or copies.
Trending:
Trial Court Dockets
Case Number Search
Circuit Clerk Access
Appellate Docket
Locate and view Illinois court case records and dockets.
Trial court (Circuit Court) public case search for the county of filing.
Page Sections:
Best first step
Use the Illinois trial court public case search for the case county.
Often searchable online
Case numbers, parties, docket entries, hearing dates, and case status.
Often requires clerk or courthouse
Full file review, older archives, certified copies, and restricted materials.
Illinois court record access routes
| Official Path | Best For | How to Access | What You May Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trial court (Circuit Court) public case search | Most criminal, traffic, and civil case lookups | Search the public case system for the filing county by case number or party, where available. | Docket entries, case status, hearing dates, and basic party or charge/claim info. |
| Circuit Clerk records counter (county of filing) | Items not posted online and complete files | Visit or contact the Circuit Clerk; request a docket search, file pull, or copies. | Complete case file, minute entries, exhibits, and copy services per access rules. |
| Appellate Court docket access | Appeal case status and filings | Search the appellate public docket by case number or party; confirm details with the Appellate Clerk if needed. | Appellate docket entries, filings, calendars, and dispositions. |
| Courthouse public terminals and records room | In-person searches and older records | Go to the courthouse named on the case; use public terminals or request the physical file. | On-site docket access, pleadings, orders, and available images for view/copy. |
Procedural FAQs
What if I don’t know the county of filing?
Check any paperwork for venue; if unknown, contact a likely county Circuit Clerk to confirm where the case was filed.
How do I get certified copies?
Submit a request to the Circuit Clerk for the case county and specify the documents; fees and ID requirements are set by that office.
Why can’t I see certain documents online?
Some items are restricted or not imaged; request in person at the Circuit Clerk or review the file at the courthouse.
How do I check an appellate case?
Search the appellate docket by case number or party; for records or briefs, contact the Appellate Clerk.