An eviction is the forcible removal of the tenant from her/his home by the Cook County sheriff with a court order signed by a judge after a trial. 

Before you can be evicted, the landlord must do two things:

1. SERVE YOU A TERMINATION OF TENANCY NOTICE 

     There are four different kinds of notices:

• 5 days' notice: this notice is for the nonpayment of rent
• 10 days' notice: this notice is for conduct by you in violation of the terms of the lease
• 30 days' notice: this notice is given if you do not have a written lease
• Letter of non-renewal of written lease: in some cases, 30 days before the end of the term of the lease

2. SUE YOU IN A COURT OF LAW FOR EVICTION 

     There are two different ways that you can be informed of a lawsuit to evict you:

• Personal service by the sheriff upon you of court papers
• Service of court papers by regular mail from the sheriff

If you have received court papers but cannot move right away, you need to phone us for help (773) 478-1133.


[The Illinois Tenants Union is not a law firm or legal services corporation; however, our executive director is a licensed Illinois attorney. And, we also have relationships with other experienced attorneys who will legally represent tenants should the need arise.]

If you have any questions or would like more information, or to discuss your rights please contact us (773) 478-1133, email us, or use our online request form.