Elizabeth Jaci Discusses New Case Management Procedures Following the Cook County Law Division’s Latest General Administrative Order

January 2021

The Cook County Law Division’s latest General Administrative Order 20-9, issued on 12/17/20, supersedes all previous GAOs issued during the pandemic. The Court implicitly recognizes the possibility that there will be no jury trials prior to July 2021. Except in extraordinary or compelling circumstances, all court matters will be conducted remotely.

The setting of jury cases for trial continues to be suspended until such time as they can safely resume, given public health directives. Cases set for jury trial between 3/17/20 and 6/30/21 are converted to “trial setting dates.” When jury trial resume, a minimum of 60-days’ notice will be sent, however, the parties will receive a trial date within 30 days of the trial setting date. Bench trials will continue, and they will be conducted remotely by randomly assigned judges.

Every case that had a jury trial date on or after 3/17/20 is subject to a mandatory pre-trial conference. Mediation is an acceptable alternative to pre-trial, as long as it is completed prior to the completion of discovery. For pending cases that have not been set for trial, the parties may agree to the transfer of their case for remote pre-trial to any Law Division Judge, provided the agreed upon judge is willing.

Click here to view the order.

Elizabeth Jaci is an experienced trial attorney who focuses her practice on healthcare liability defense. She represents physicians, nurses, therapists, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities and other healthcare institutions throughout Illinois.