Illinois Process Server

No. Illinois does not have a statewide licensing requirement for process servers. However, the person serving process must meet the applicable legal requirements, and certain counties may require court appointment or authorization for private process servers.

Depending on the circumstances, process may be served by a sheriff or coroner, a licensed private detective, a registered employee of a detective agency, or a private individual who is at least 18 years old and appointed by the court. Special requirements may apply in counties such as Cook County.

Illinois process serving is primarily governed by Chapter 735 of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, particularly the Civil Procedure provisions in 735 ILCS 5. These laws address who may serve process, methods of service, service on businesses and organizations, and service outside Illinois.

Yes. Illinois law permits substituted service in certain circumstances. For example, documents may be left at the defendant's residence with a person aged 13 or older, followed by mailing a copy. Strict requirements apply, including proper documentation of the service.

Yes. Proper documentation of service is important in Illinois. The process server must accurately record relevant details about the service, including information such as the date, location, method of service, and person who received the documents.