Criminal Defense Exhibits for Illinois Courts
Illinois felony criminal cases are governed by the discovery rules that begin at Illinois Supreme Court Rule 411. Cook County, handling a significant portion of Illinois criminal matters, has specific procedures that differ from downstate counties. This guide covers exhibit preparation for felonies, misdemeanors, DUI cases, and white-collar criminal matters in Illinois courts.
- Illinois's primary exhibit rule is Illinois Supreme Court Rules 411-415.
- Criminal Defense cases in Illinois e-file through File & ServeIllinois (Odyssey).
- File & ServeIllinois (Odyssey) caps each uploaded document at 15 MB per document.
- The exhibit exchange deadline in Illinois is Discovery per 725 ILCS 5/114-13.
- Common Criminal Defense exhibits in Illinois include Police reports and arrest records and Body camera and surveillance footage.
- ExhibitPrep stamps exhibits in the browser, so case files never leave the computer.
Before you file
ExhibitPrep formats documents. It does not provide legal advice, submit filings, or determine whether evidence is admissible or a filing meets court requirements.
Some guidance has not been verified against current official sources. A citation supports only its stated claim and scope. Compare the finished PDF with current court instructions and orders in your case. Follow the filing review checklist.
Opens the tool set up for Illinois — plaintiff: Numbers starting at 1; defendant: Letters starting at A.
Illinois Quick Reference
| E-Filing System | File & ServeIllinois (Odyssey) ↗ |
| File Size Limit | 15 MB per document |
| Exchange Deadline | Discovery per 725 ILCS 5/114-13 |
| Primary Rule | Illinois Supreme Court Rules 411-415 |
Common Criminal Defense Exhibits in Illinois
Illinois Criminal Defense Tips
- 1Illinois Supreme Court Rule 412 governs prosecution disclosure - ensure you receive all materials
- 2Cook County has specific exhibit procedures at 26th and California - check division requirements
- 3Downstate counties may have varying local rules - always verify with clerk
- 4Electronic evidence must be authenticated per Illinois Rules of Evidence 901
- 5Brady material must be disclosed - document all discovery requests
- 6Check the assigned judge's requirements for exhibit formatting in a motion to suppress.
- 7DuPage and Lake County criminal divisions have their own procedures
Common Criminal Defense Filing Mistakes in Illinois
Criminal Defense Exhibits in Illinois: FAQ
What are the discovery requirements in Illinois criminal cases?
Illinois Supreme Court Rule 411 applies the Part B discovery rules to criminal cases charging a felony. Rule 412 requires the prosecution, upon written defense motion, to disclose witness statements, statements of the accused, expert reports, and documents or tangible objects it intends to use. Defense must disclose witness lists and certain evidence under Rule 413.
How do Cook County criminal exhibit procedures differ from other Illinois courts?
Cook County Criminal Court at 26th and California has specific procedures for exhibit marking and exchange. Felony and misdemeanor divisions may have different requirements. Always check with the specific courtroom or division for current rules.
What file size limits apply to Illinois criminal court e-filings?
File & ServeIllinois has a 15 MB limit per document. For lengthy video evidence or large discovery materials, you may need to submit via CD/DVD or arrange alternate delivery with the court.
How should I organize exhibits for an Illinois criminal defense case?
Organize exhibits chronologically or by category (police reports, witness statements, physical evidence). Use clear defense exhibit numbering (Def. Ex. 1, 2, 3). ExhibitPrep can batch stamp all documents consistently.
Are there specific rules for digital evidence in Illinois criminal cases?
Digital evidence must be authenticated under Illinois Rules of Evidence 901. This includes establishing chain of custody, demonstrating the evidence hasn't been altered, and having a witness who can testify to its authenticity.
Related Resources
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Opens the tool set up for Illinois — plaintiff: Numbers starting at 1; defendant: Letters starting at A.
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