In Chicago, there is a special court for people who do not have lawyers and are suing for $3,000 or less which is called "pro se" small claims court. Pro se means on one's own behalf, or in this case going to court without a lawyer. 

There is a help desk where people can get help using the pro se small claims court. Both the pro se small claims court and the help desk are located at the Daley Center, 50 W. Washington, Chicago, IL. The help desk is located on the 6th floor in room 602, and the hours are 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, except court holidays.

Types of cases typically heard in pro se small claims court are:

• Fraud,
• Breach of contract,
• Torts,
• Personal injury motor vehicle,
• Personal injury subrogation, and 
• Property damage.

The Cook County pro se branch operates as follows:

• Complaints must be filed pro se by the plaintiffs. Lawyers are not permitted to file complaints on behalf of a plaintiff. Plaintiffs may later hire a lawyer only if the defendant is represented by one.
• Defendants may appear pro se (represent themselves) or hire a lawyer.
• Monetary damages are limited to $3,000 or less.
• All cases are referred to mediation so the parties can attempt to resolve the issues before a judge hears the case.

For more information on pro se cases in Cook County, call (312) 603-5145 or visit the Pro Se Help Desk webpage. You can also read this Pro Se Handbook.