Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution utilized in certain civil cases in Winnebago County and Boone County to expedite resolution and avoid trial. Arbitration is a non-binding but mandatory process in which the parties and their attorneys appear before a panel of three trained attorneys and present their evidence and arguments. The hope is that the parties will come to a mutually satisfying agreement outside of court.
Additional Resources:
- State of Illinois Uniform Arbitrator Reference Manual
- 17th Circuit Court Arbitration Reference Manual
- Arbitration Questions and Answers
- Rule 222 Arbitration Disclosure Statement
- Rule 222 Arbitration Disclosure Statement (Spanish Translation)
- Rule 90(c) Cover Sheet
- Notice of Rejection Award
- Local Rule 2.07 Mandatory Arbitration
- Local Rule 2.13 Mandatory Arbitration for Small Claims Actions with Jury Demands
The arbitration process is quite similar to a traditional court proceeding. Once the parties have presented their arguments, the arbitrators begin their deliberations. In order for a decision to be made, two of the three arbitrators must agree. Their decision will be made available to the parties later that day. The parties can then accept or reject the decision. If the decision is accepted by all sides, a court date is set so a judge can confirm the award. If the decision is rejected, a court date is set so the matter can proceed to trial.
Arbitrations occur at the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Center , located in the lower level of Stewart Square; 308 West State Street, Suite 25, Rockford, Illinois 61101.
Handbook - What is Aribtration
Eligibility Standards
- The case must be a civil, not criminal, matter seeking only money damages.
- The monetary sum being sought must be over $10,000 but no more than $50,000, or under $10,000 with a timely filed jury demand.
For additional information
Phone: 815-987-7739
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