Once the sheriff serves the defendant, the sheriff will fill out a separate certificate of service or a sworn statement on the back of the summons copy. Start your Service of Process at the Clerk of the Circuit Court.The clerk has one office at every courthouse and multiple at the Richard J. Daley Center. Call or text Illinois Court Help at or go to ilcourthelp. Gov for information about going to court, including how to fill out and file documents. Rule 101(b)(1) summons must be served at least 21 days before the appearance date. You must file within 30 days after service of this summons, not counting the day of service. After completing and saving your Appearance form, you can electronically file (e-File) it with the circuit clerk's office. Date of Service: Fill in the date above and give this copy of the Summons to the person served. Fill in the date above and give this copy of the Summons to the person served.