What is a case management conference in Illinois divorce?

A case management conference is an early hearing where the judge sets the schedule for your divorce. The court establishes deadlines for discovery, disclosure of witnesses and exhibits, completion of depositions, and sets a tentative trial date. It creates a roadmap for the entire case.

When does the case management conference happen?

In Cook County, the initial case management conference typically occurs 60-90 days after the respondent files an appearance. Other counties vary. You'll receive notice of the date from the court or from your attorney.

Do I have to attend the case management conference?

Many judges require both parties to attend the case management conference, not just attorneys. Check with your attorney or the court's standing order. Missing a required appearance can result in sanctions or adverse rulings.

What is a case management order?

The case management order is the written schedule that comes out of the conference. It lists deadlines for discovery completion, expert disclosure, deposition cutoffs, motion deadlines, and the trial date. Missing these deadlines can result in evidence being barred.

Can the case management order be modified?

Yes, but you need good cause. If circumstances change, either party can file a motion to modify the schedule. Judges are more flexible early in the case. As deadlines approach, courts become less willing to grant extensions.

Case Management Conference in Illinois Divorce | What to Expect

What Is a Case Management Conference?

A case management conference is an early hearing where the court establishes the schedule for your divorce. Think of it as the planning meeting for the entire case. The judge, with input from both attorneys, sets deadlines that will govern the pace of your divorce.

This conference typically happens 60-90 days after both parties have appeared in the case. It's your first substantive court date after the initial filings.

What Gets Decided

Discovery Deadlines

When must all discovery requests be served? When must responses be complete? When is the deposition cutoff?

Expert Disclosure

Deadlines for identifying expert witnesses (custody evaluators, business valuators, vocational experts) and producing their reports.

Witness Lists

Deadline to disclose all witnesses you intend to call at trial. Miss this, and they may be barred from testifying.

Motion Deadlines

Cutoff date for filing pre-trial motions. Late motions may be denied or require special leave.

Mediation Referral

Many courts require mediation before trial. The conference often sets the mediation deadline.

Trial Date

A tentative trial date is often set. This may be months out, giving structure to settlement negotiations.

Sample Case Management Order

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED:

Written Discovery: All written discovery to be served by [Date +60 days]
Discovery Responses: All responses due within 28 days of service
Depositions: All fact witness depositions to be completed by [Date +120 days]
Expert Disclosure: Petitioner to disclose experts by [Date +90 days]; Respondent by [Date +105 days]
Expert Depositions: To be completed by [Date +150 days]
Mediation: Parties to complete mediation by [Date +180 days]
Pre-Trial Motions: All pre-trial motions due by [Date +200 days]
Trial: This matter is set for trial on [Date +240 days]

How to Prepare

Before the Conference

• Discuss case timeline with your attorney
• Identify potential experts you'll need
• Consider complexity of financial issues
• Think about custody evaluation needs

At the Conference

• Dress professionally
• Arrive early if attendance required
• Let your attorney speak for you
• Take notes on all deadlines set

Case Management Conference Coming Up?

An experienced attorney ensures your case gets a realistic schedule - one that gives you time to build your case while keeping things moving toward resolution.

Schedule Consultation (847) 260-7330