Champaign County Court Records
What Is Champaign County Court Records
Court records in Champaign County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive archive of judicial activities as defined under Illinois Supreme Court Rules and the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/).
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and petitions
- Court dockets listing scheduled hearings and case status
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Transcripts of court proceedings
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during trials
- Sentencing records and probation reports
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Probate and estate documentation
These records differ from other public records such as property deeds, birth certificates, and tax assessments, which are maintained by other county departments. Pursuant to § 705 ILCS 105/16, the Champaign County Circuit Clerk serves as the official custodian of court records for proceedings conducted in:
- The Sixth Judicial Circuit Court (primary court of original jurisdiction)
- Champaign County Small Claims Court
- Champaign County Traffic Court
- Champaign County Family Court
- Champaign County Probate Court
The Circuit Court of Illinois system maintains records for civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic matters occurring within county boundaries. These records document the judicial process from initial filing through final disposition and enforcement of judgments.
Are Court Records Public In Champaign County
Court records in Champaign County are presumptively open to public inspection under Illinois law. The Illinois Constitution (Article I, § 12) establishes that "every person shall find a certain remedy in the laws for all injuries and wrongs," creating a foundation for open courts. Additionally, the Illinois Freedom of Information Act and the Clerk of Courts Act (705 ILCS 105/) establish the public's right to access judicial records.
Records generally available to the public include:
- Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, orders)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Judgments and court orders
- Docket sheets and hearing schedules
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Probate and estate records
The Illinois Supreme Court has established specific rules governing public access to court records through its Electronic Access Policy for Circuit Court Records. This policy balances transparency with privacy concerns and establishes uniform standards for record access across all Illinois counties.
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois (which includes Champaign County) are governed by federal access rules and maintained separately from state court records.
How To Find Court Records in Champaign County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Champaign County may utilize several methods to locate and review judicial documents. The following procedures are currently in effect:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
- Complete a record request form, providing case number, party names, or other identifying information.
- Present valid photo identification.
- Pay applicable copy fees ($1.00 per page for regular copies, $5.00 for certified copies).
Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Office
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Circuit Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Online Access:
- Visit the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's website.
- Navigate to the "Court Records Search" section.
- Register for an account if accessing restricted information.
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, filing date).
- Review available documents and pay applicable fees for copies.
Mail Requests:
- Submit a written request to the Circuit Clerk's Office including:
- Case number or party names
- Specific documents requested
- Return address
- Check or money order for applicable fees
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing.
For specialized records such as adoption files, juvenile cases, or sealed records, additional procedures and court orders may be required pursuant to § 705 ILCS 105/16(6).
How To Look Up Court Records in Champaign County Online?
Champaign County provides several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems offer varying levels of information based on record type and confidentiality status.
Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Online Portal:
- Navigate to the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's website.
- Select "Online Court Records" from the main menu.
- Choose between public access (limited information) or registered user access.
- For public access: enter case number, party name, or date range.
- For registered access: create an account, log in, and access expanded record options.
- Review case information, including docket entries, party information, and scheduled hearings.
- Pay applicable fees to view or download document images.
Illinois Statewide Records: The Illinois Courts Electronic Filing System (eFileIL) provides a centralized platform for accessing certain court records:
- Visit the Illinois Courts website.
- Select "eAccess" from the main navigation.
- Choose "Public" access type.
- Search by case number, party name, or attorney.
- Review basic case information available without registration.
Re:SearchIL Portal: For attorneys and registered users, the Re:SearchIL system offers enhanced access:
- Register through the Illinois Courts website.
- Complete identity verification process.
- Access comprehensive case information across multiple counties.
- View document images where available.
The online systems typically include records for civil, small claims, traffic, criminal, and family cases. However, certain sensitive records (juvenile, adoption, sealed cases) remain restricted and require court orders or in-person verification for access.
How To Search Champaign County Court Records for Free?
Illinois law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. Pursuant to § 705 ILCS 105/27.1b, "all records, dockets and books required by law to be kept by circuit court clerks shall be open to the public for inspection."
Free access options include:
In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
- Request to view specific case files using public access terminals.
- No fee is charged for viewing records on-site.
Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Office
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Circuit Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Public Access Terminals:
- Use dedicated computer terminals at the courthouse.
- Search by case number, party name, or filing date.
- View basic case information and docket entries at no charge.
- Printing fees may apply ($0.25-$1.00 per page).
Online Basic Case Information:
- Visit the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's website.
- Select "Public Case Search" option.
- Enter search criteria.
- View basic case information including:
- Case number and filing date
- Party names
- Case type and status
- Upcoming court dates
- Judgment amounts (in civil cases)
While basic case information is available without charge, fees typically apply for document images, certified copies, and comprehensive searches across multiple case types or date ranges.
What's Included in a Champaign County Court Record?
Champaign County court records contain various documents depending on the case type and stage of proceedings. The content of these records is governed by Illinois Supreme Court Rules and local court procedures.
Civil Case Records typically include:
- Complaint or petition initiating the case
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions filed by either party
- Court orders and rulings
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Transcripts of hearings (if requested)
- Final judgment or dismissal order
- Post-judgment collection documents
Criminal Case Records typically include:
- Charging documents (information or indictment)
- Arrest warrant or summons
- Bond information
- Defendant's plea
- Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges
- Discovery documents (with restrictions)
- Pre-trial orders
- Jury selection records (with limitations)
- Verdict or judgment
- Sentencing information
- Probation reports (with restrictions)
Family Court Records typically include:
- Petition for dissolution of marriage
- Financial affidavits (may be restricted)
- Parenting plans
- Child support calculations
- Property settlement agreements
- Temporary and permanent orders
- Name change documents
- Qualified domestic relations orders
Probate Records typically include:
- Will (if applicable)
- Petition for probate
- Letters of office/administration
- Inventory of assets
- Claims against the estate
- Accounting reports
- Distribution plans
- Final discharge orders
Each court record also contains a register of actions (docket sheet) listing all documents filed, hearings held, and actions taken in chronological order. This serves as the official index to the case file.
How Long Does Champaign County Keep Court Records?
Champaign County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Illinois Supreme Court and the Illinois State Records Commission. These retention periods vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance.
The primary retention periods currently in effect include:
Civil Cases:
- Small claims (under $10,000): 5 years after final disposition
- General civil litigation: 20 years after final disposition
- Judgments: 20 years (renewable for additional 20-year periods)
- Real property cases: Permanently maintained
- Administrative review: 20 years after final disposition
Criminal Cases:
- Felonies: 75 years after final disposition
- Misdemeanors: 10 years after final disposition
- Traffic violations: 7 years after final disposition
- DUI cases: 25 years after final disposition
- Juvenile delinquency: Until subject's 21st birthday (with exceptions)
Family Court Records:
- Divorce/dissolution: Permanently maintained
- Child support: Until youngest child reaches age 23
- Orders of protection: 7 years after expiration
- Adoption: Permanently maintained (with restricted access)
Probate Records:
- Decedent estates: 20 years after closing
- Guardianships: 20 years after termination
- Wills: Permanently maintained
These retention periods are established pursuant to § 50 ILCS 205/7 and Supreme Court Rule 331. After the retention period expires, records may be transferred to the Illinois State Archives, microfilmed, or destroyed according to approved procedures.
Certain historically significant cases and records of notable public interest may be preserved permanently regardless of standard retention schedules. Additionally, electronic records are increasingly maintained indefinitely due to reduced storage constraints.
Types of Courts In Champaign County
Champaign County's court system operates within Illinois' unified court structure, with several courts serving different jurisdictional functions. The Circuit Court of Illinois serves as the primary trial court with divisions handling specialized matters.
Champaign County Circuit Court (Sixth Judicial Circuit)
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
The Circuit Court includes specialized divisions:
Champaign County Family Court
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Family Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Champaign County Juvenile Court
400 S. Art Bartell Road
Urbana, IL 61802
(217) 384-3684
Champaign County Juvenile Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Champaign County Small Claims Court
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Small Claims Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Champaign County Traffic Court
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Traffic Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
The court hierarchy for cases originating in Champaign County follows this structure:
- Circuit Court (trial court of original jurisdiction)
- Fourth District Appellate Court (located in Springfield)
- Illinois Supreme Court (final state appellate authority)
Federal cases involving Champaign County residents are heard in:
United States District Court - Central District of Illinois (Urbana Division)
201 S. Vine Street
Urbana, IL 61802
(217) 373-5830
U.S. District Court - Central District of Illinois
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
What Types of Cases Do Champaign County Courts Hear?
Champaign County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to jurisdictional authority established by Illinois law. Case assignments are determined by subject matter, monetary value, and statutory provisions.
Circuit Court - General Division:
- Civil lawsuits exceeding $50,000
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Administrative review of government agency decisions
- Tax objections and disputes
- Eminent domain proceedings
- Mortgage foreclosures
- Medical malpractice claims
- Product liability cases
- Complex commercial litigation
Family Court Division:
- Divorce and marriage dissolution
- Child custody and parenting time determinations
- Child support establishment and enforcement
- Spousal maintenance (alimony)
- Property division in marital dissolution
- Orders of protection and domestic violence matters
- Name changes
- Adoptions
- Guardianships of minors
Juvenile Court Division:
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Juvenile abuse and neglect cases
- Truancy matters
- Minor requiring authoritative intervention
- Juvenile addiction cases
Small Claims Division:
- Civil disputes under $10,000
- Landlord-tenant conflicts
- Consumer complaints
- Contract disputes
- Property damage claims
- Collection matters
Traffic Division:
- Moving violations
- Driving under influence (DUI)
- License suspensions and revocations
- Vehicle equipment violations
- Parking infractions
- Ordinance violations
Probate Division:
- Decedent estate administration
- Will contests
- Trust administration
- Guardianships for disabled adults
- Conservatorships
- Elder care matters
Case assignment follows jurisdictional rules established by the Illinois Supreme Court and local court administration. Complex cases may involve multiple divisions or be consolidated under a single judge for efficient adjudication.
How To Find a Court Docket In Champaign County
Court dockets in Champaign County provide chronological listings of all cases scheduled for specific dates, including hearing types, assigned courtrooms, and presiding judges. These schedules are available through several channels:
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's website.
- Select "Court Schedules" or "Daily Docket" from the navigation menu.
- Choose the desired date and court division.
- View listings of scheduled cases, including:
- Case numbers
- Party names
- Hearing types
- Scheduled times
- Assigned courtrooms and judges
Case-Specific Docket Information:
- Access the Champaign County Case Information System.
- Enter the case number or party name.
- View all past and future scheduled hearings for that specific case.
- Note that some case types may have restricted public access.
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Office.
- Request to view daily court schedules at the public service counter.
- Printed dockets are typically posted outside each courtroom.
Champaign County Circuit Clerk's Office
101 E. Main Street
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 384-3725
Champaign County Circuit Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Telephone Information:
- Call the Circuit Clerk's automated system at (217) 384-3725.
- Follow prompts for court schedule information.
- Provide case number when requested.
Court dockets are typically updated daily, with changes possible due to continuances, settlements, or judicial reassignments. For the most current information, checking online resources or contacting the clerk's office on the day of the scheduled hearing is recommended.
Which Courts in Champaign County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Illinois, a "court of record" is defined by § 705 ILCS 35/1 as a court whose proceedings are permanently recorded, with the authority to fine or imprison for contempt, and from which appeals are taken directly to higher courts. Conversely, courts "not of record" typically handle minor matters with simplified procedures and may not maintain comprehensive transcripts.
Within Champaign County, the following courts are not courts of record:
Administrative Hearing Officers:
- Municipal code violation hearings
- Parking ticket adjudication
- Local ordinance enforcement
- These proceedings use hearing officers rather than judges and maintain simplified records
University of Illinois Student Disciplinary Committee:
- Academic misconduct hearings
- Student conduct violations
- While not a governmental court, this body adjudicates university policy violations
Alternative Dispute Resolution Forums:
- Court-annexed mediation programs
- Arbitration for small claims under $10,000
- These proceedings are confidential with limited record-keeping
All divisions of the Champaign County Circuit Court (including Traffic, Small Claims, and Juvenile) are courts of record under Illinois law. Their proceedings are recorded verbatim, either through court reporters or digital recording systems, and comprehensive case files are maintained according to state retention schedules.
The distinction between courts of record and those not of record affects:
- Appeal procedures and standards of review
- Evidentiary requirements
- Record-keeping obligations
- Enforcement mechanisms for judgments
Decisions from non-record forums typically require filing in the Circuit Court to obtain enforceable judgments, while Circuit Court judgments are immediately enforceable upon entry.
Lookup Court Records in Champaign County
State of Illinois Office of the Illinois Courts