A voluntary unincorporated association sued in its own name may be served by leaving a copy of the process with any officer of the association personally or by leaving a copy of the process at the office of the association with an agent of the association. A voluntary unincorporated association sued in its own name may also be notified by publication and mail in like manner and with like effect as individuals.
2-205.1.Service on voluntary unincorporated associations.
Article II. Civil Practice · Part 2. Process · Not amended since adoption on record · Last verified July 20, 2026
In one sentenceAllows a voluntary unincorporated association sued in its own name to be served by leaving process personally with an officer, or at the association's office with an agent, and lets it be notified by publication and mail the same way as individuals.
Full Text of 735 ILCS 5/2-205.1
Plain-English Summary
This section supplies a service method for a voluntary unincorporated association sued in its own name. Process may be left personally with any officer of the association, or at the association's office with an agent of the association.
The section also allows notice by publication and mail, in the same manner and with the same effect as individuals, when the circumstances calling for that kind of notice apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a voluntary unincorporated association be served under this section?
By leaving a copy of the process with any officer of the association personally, or at the association's office with an agent of the association.
Can this kind of association be served by publication?
Yes, in the same manner and with the same effect as individuals.
Does this section apply to corporations or partnerships?
No. It applies to a voluntary unincorporated association sued in its own name.
Does the section require service on a specific officer, such as the president?
No. It allows service on "any officer" personally, without naming a particular office.
What is the alternative if no officer can be found personally?
The section allows leaving a copy at the association's office with an agent instead.
Amendment History
(Source: P.A. 83-901.)
Source & verification. Section text and amendment history are
reproduced verbatim from the Illinois Compiled Statutes, published by the
Illinois Compiled Statutes, Illinois General Assembly / Legislative Reference Bureau. Last verified July 20, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: serving a voluntary unincorporated association Illinoisassociation lawsuit service of processservice on an association officer or agenthow to serve an unincorporated club or group