IL HB2217

Illinois Supreme Court may adopt rules to promote prompt, efficient, and cost-effective resolution of civil actions where the amount in controversy is more than $10,000 but does not exceed $100,000, including rules to lower discovery costs and expedite these cases.

Defendants are prohibited from designating a third-party defendant after a limitation period applicable to the plaintiff's cause of action has expired.

Circuit courts may award costs and reasonable and necessary attorney's fees to the prevailing party when granting or denying a motion to dismiss based on the absence of a basis in law or fact for the action, in amounts the court determines are equitable and just.

This attorney's fees provision does not apply to actions by or against the State, other governmental entities, or public officials acting in their official capacity or under color of law.

Reasonable deposition fees may be recovered as costs in civil actions.