How to Appeal an Eviction in Chicago

The eviction process in Chicago starts with the filing of an eviction complaint in small claims court. Both parties will have an opportunity to be heard at a hearing after which the judge will make a ruling regarding the appeal. If you were a party to an eviction proceeding and are not happy with the judge's ruling, you have the right to appeal the ruling to a higher court. Be aware that an appeal must be filed within 30 days from the judge's decision or you will lose your right to appeal.

• 1

  Prepare a notice of appeal form. All forms that you will need can be found on the Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court website as well as at the Customer Service Counter in Room 801 of the Delay Center (see Resources). The notice of appeal serves to notify the other side in your case and the courts that you intend to appeal the decision.

• 2

  Make at least three copies of the notice of appeal. File the notice of appeal with the civil appeals division in Room 801 of the Delay Center. Serve the opposing party with a copy of the notice of appeal and keep at least one copy for your records.

• 3

  Pay the required fee for filing the appeal. You must also pay a deposit of $110 (as of 2010) toward the costs of preparing the record for appeal.

• 4

  Prepare the request to prepare a record on appeal form. This form tells the trial court what records you are requesting for the appeal. File the form with the clerk of courts where you filed the notice of appeal.

• 5

  Write a brief in support of your position on appeal. Your brief should highlight what happened in the trial court and explain what the basis is for your appeal.