Electronic Filing Guide

Per Illinois Supreme Court mandate, electronic filing is required for all Civil and Family cases. Hancock County also offers optional e-filing for existing Criminal, Traffic, and Juvenile cases.

How to Start e-Filing

  • Select an Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP)

    An EFSP serves as the online portal between you and the eFileIL system. Compare providers using the EFSP Comparison Chart to find the one that best fits your needs.

    Note: You can switch or use multiple EFSPs using your same username and password without re-registering.

  • Submit Your Documents

    Filers are responsible for ensuring all submissions are accurate. Most EFSPs offer training videos and user manuals on their platforms.

    Need visual help? Watch the step-by-step eFileIL Help Video Guide from your phone or computer.

Fee Waivers & Exemptions

  • Requesting a Civil Fee Waiver

    If you cannot afford court filing or service fees, you can ask the court for a waiver based on your income. Complete an Application for Waiver of Court Fees (Civil) and the accompanying Order on Application for Waiver of Court Fees (Civil). Visit the Illinois Supreme Court Website for full details and forms.

  • Requesting an Exemption from e-Filing

    Under Illinois Supreme Court Rule 9(c)(4), you may request to file paper documents if you meet any of the following "good cause" criteria:

    • You are representing yourself and do not have a computer or internet at home.
    • You are representing yourself and have a disability that prevents e-filing.
    • You are representing yourself and have difficulty reading, writing, or speaking English.
    • You are filing in a sensitive case type.

    To apply, attach a completed Certificate for Exemption from E-Filing Form to your paper filing.

In-Person Assistance

If you do not have access to a computer or scanner, a public E-Filing Station is available at the Hancock County Courthouse on the second floor, Room 8.

Contact Us for E-Filing Inquiries

Common Reasons Filing are Rejected

To avoid delays, ensure your documents do not contain these frequent errors.

  • Combined Lead Documents

    Documents with different titles must be uploaded as separate PDF files (e.g., a Notice of Motion and a Motion must be two distinct PDFs marked as lead documents).

  • Separated Exhibits

    Exhibits must be attached to the main document and uploaded together as a single PDF.

  • Incorrect Payment Options

    Selecting "Waiver" without submitting a Fee Waiver Application, or selecting "New Case" instead of "File into Existing Case."

  • Formatting Issues

    Unreadable PDFs, incorrect document sizing (must be 8.5" x 11"), or corrupted files.

  • Blank or Unscheduled Hearing Info

    Leaving the court date, time, or room blank on summonses or notices.

    Note: You must contact the Circuit Clerk’s office to schedule a date before submitting documents that require one.

  • Submitting Proposed Orders

    Documents meant directly for the judge (such as proposed orders) cannot be submitted through e-filing at this time.