Section 10-13.—Method of Service

Section 10-13 explains the mechanics of serving an attorney or self-represented party under Section 10-12. Except for service under Section 10-12(c), service may be made by delivering a copy or by mailing it to the last known address. Delivery means handing the copy to the attorney or party, leaving it at the attorney’s office with the person in charge, leaving it in a conspicuous place if no one is in charge, or leaving it at the usual place of abode if the office is closed or the person has no office. Delivery can also mean electronic delivery to the last known electronic address, but electronic delivery to a self-represented party requires that party’s written consent. An attorney or self-represented party who e-files a document must serve it electronically on any self-represented party who consented in writing and on all attorneys not exempt from e-filing; any attorney not exempt from e-filing must accept electronic delivery.

Service by mail is complete upon mailing. Service by electronic delivery is complete upon sending the electronic notice, unless the person making service learns the attempted service did not reach the recipient’s electronic address. Service under Section 10-12(c) — pleadings asserting new claims against non-appearing or defaulted parties — must be made the same way an original writ and complaint is served, or as the judicial authority orders.