Any such papers, entries, records and ordinances may be proved by copies examined and sworn to by credible witnesses.
8-1206.Sworn copies.
Article VIII. Evidence · Part 12. Records and Patents · Not amended since adoption on record · Last verified July 20, 2026
In one sentencePapers, entries, records, and ordinances may also be proved by copies that credible witnesses have examined and sworn to, as an alternative to a certified copy.
Full Text of 735 ILCS 5/8-1206
Plain-English Summary
This section offers an alternative to the certified-copy method of the preceding sections: proof by copies that credible witnesses have examined and sworn to.
It covers the same category of documents addressed in Sections 8-1202 through 8-1204, papers, entries, records, and ordinances, keeping that material open to a witness-based method of proof.
The sworn-copy route is useful when a certified copy meeting the earlier sections' requirements is not available or practical to obtain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What alternative to a certified copy does this section allow?
Proof by copies examined and sworn to by credible witnesses.
What kinds of documents can be proved this way?
The same papers, entries, records, and ordinances addressed in the preceding sections of this Part.
Who can provide the sworn examination?
Credible witnesses.
Does this method replace the certification requirements in Sections 8-1202 through 8-1205?
No. It is offered as an additional way to prove the documents rather than a replacement.
When might a party use this sworn-copy method instead of a certified copy?
When a certified copy meeting the earlier sections' requirements is not available or practical to obtain.
Amendment History
(Source: P.A. 82-280.)
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: sworn copy of records illinois evidencewitness examined copy of records illinoisproving records without certification illinoiscredible witness sworn copy statute