Structured Settlement Laws in Illinois

Will County Circuit Court

Court procedures, filing requirements, and local rules for structured settlement transfers in Will County Circuit Court.

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🏛️ Court
Will County Circuit Court
100 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL 60432
⏱️ Processing Time
35-70 days from filing to final hearing
Filing fee: $319.00 (civil case filing)
👥 Population
696,355 (2023 estimate)
Volume: medium

Court Information

Will County Circuit Court
Address: 100 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL 60432
Phone: (815) 727-8592
Clerk: Andrea L. Chasteen
Jurisdiction: Will County
Established: Established 1836

Venue Overview

Will County Circuit Court serves a major suburban area southwest of Chicago and one of Illinois' fastest-growing counties, processing structured settlement transfers from professionals and families with complex financial portfolios. With over 696,000 residents, Will County handles civil cases including financial transactions requiring court approval under 735 ILCS 5/2-1401. The court operates specialized divisions, with the Chancery Division managing structured settlement petitions in Joliet. The 12th Judicial Circuit Court judges are experienced in handling sophisticated financial matters common in rapidly growing suburban communities. The county's proximity to Chicago and strong industrial presence, including major distribution centers and manufacturing facilities, means the court sees structured settlement cases from professionals and industrial workers. The court maintains strict compliance with Illinois' structured settlement protection laws while understanding the unique financial planning needs of growing communities. Filing procedures reflect the court's high standards and experience with complex transactions. All petitions must comply with Illinois' comprehensive requirements, including detailed financial disclosures and independent advisor certification. The court typically schedules hearings within 30-45 days, reflecting the efficiency of the suburban jurisdiction. Financial experts are frequently appointed to review complex calculations and investment alternatives. Local rules emphasize thorough documentation and payee protection, requiring electronic filing and comprehensive financial analysis. The court serves Joliet and surrounding growing communities including Bolingbrook, Orland Park, and Tinley Park, each with distinct economic characteristics affecting structured settlement decisions. The 12th Circuit's experience with industrial and professional cases provides valuable context for evaluating transfer requests. Judges understand the impact of manufacturing employment, distribution center work, and suburban growth on payees' financial stability.

Major Cities Served: Joliet, Bolingbrook, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Plainfield

Filing Procedures

📋 Step-by-Step Process
1.Electronic filing with Will County Circuit Clerk
2.Assignment to 12th Judicial Circuit Chancery Division
3.Certified mail notice to all interested parties
4.25-day response period for settlement companies
5.Financial discovery and documentation period (3-4 weeks)
6.Pre-hearing conference for transfers over $20,000
7.Final hearing with payee testimony
8.Detailed written findings of fact issued
9.30-day appeal period from final judgment
⚖️ Local Rules
  • Electronic filing required through Will County e-filing system
  • Cases assigned to judges with industrial case experience
  • Mandatory disclosure of union contracts and benefits
  • Court verification of all financial calculations
  • Publication in Herald-News required if personal service fails
  • Expedited review for emergency situations
  • Expert financial analysis for complex transfers

Special Requirements

📋 Mandatory Requirements
  • Compliance with 735 ILCS 5/2-1401 required
  • Independent financial advisor report mandatory
  • Detailed financial disclosure including employment history
  • Court must make specific findings regarding payee's best interest
  • All annuity issuers and interested parties must receive notice
  • Explanation of transfer alternatives required
  • Court considers manufacturing industry employment cycles
⏱️ Timeline
Filing Fee:$319.00 (civil case filing)
Processing Time:35-70 days from filing to final hearing
Transfer Volume:medium

Assigned Judges

Hon. Daniel L. Kennedy
Circuit Court Judge
Chancery Division - 12th Judicial Circuit
Presides over structured settlement and financial cases
Extensive experience in complex civil and financial matters
Hon. Vincent F. Cornelius
Circuit Court Judge
Chancery Division - Financial Transactions
Handles settlement transfers and financial disputes
Background in commercial litigation and financial law

Local Resources & Links

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⚖️ Legal Disclaimer - Illinois Structured Settlement Information

For informational purposes only. This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. Structured settlement laws vary by state and are subject to change.

Court approval required. All structured settlement transfers require court approval in every state to ensure the best interests of the payee and any dependents are protected.

Professional consultation recommended. We strongly recommend consulting with qualified legal and financial professionals before making any decisions regarding structured settlement transfers.

State-specific requirements. Each state has unique statutes, court procedures, and approval criteria. Always verify current requirements with official state resources.

Illinois specific information. The information provided here is specific to Illinois state laws and may not apply to other jurisdictions.

Contact information: For questions about structured settlements in your state, please contact your state insurance department or a qualified attorney.

Last updated:
Content last updated: November 20, 2025

Structured Settlement Transfer Procedures in Will County Circuit Court, Illinois

Navigating structured settlement transfers in Will County Circuit Court, Illinois requires understanding both state-level regulations and local court procedures. Each county may have specific filing requirements, court rules, and administrative procedures that supplement the broader Illinois structured settlement protection act.

When filing a structured settlement transfer petition in Will County Circuit Court, Illinois, you'll work with the local court system to obtain approval. The Will County Circuit Court court will review your petition to ensure the transfer serves your best interest, considers mandatory disclosure documents, and verifies that you've received independent professional advice. Local court procedures may include specific filing fees, timeline requirements, and documentation standards that vary from other counties in Illinois.

The Will County Circuit Court court system's familiarity with structured settlement transfers can impact processing times and approval rates. Courts with high transfer volumes often have streamlined procedures, while others may require additional documentation or extended review periods. Working with professionals experienced in Will County Circuit Court court procedures helps ensure your petition is filed correctly and moves through the approval process efficiently.

Smarter Payouts partners with licensed brokers and legal professionals who understand both Illinois state laws and Will County Circuit Court local court requirements. This local expertise helps streamline the approval process, ensures compliance with all applicable regulations, and protects your rights throughout the transfer. Whether you're filing in Will County Circuit Court or another jurisdiction in Illinois, our team ensures your petition meets all legal and procedural requirements.

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