Jury demand abusive in Chicago eviction cases

[Patrick Pan]

Hi,

Most Chicago landlords probably heard of the jury demand tactic that tenants use to delay the eviction cases. I had one many years ago and luckily the rent was paid by the third party in the end. The case was dismissed. Now I'm facing another. Not sure what to expect. My attorney told me that very few jury demand cases actually go all the way to jury trial. Most settle before that (either agree on prolong stay or reduce the rent owe or both). What I don't understand is how the low income tenant attorney makes money. They'd better not try to collect from LL.

I've heard of the modification to stream line jury demand process by Cook county judges in 2015. Not sure about the details. 

Please share your experience. Any tips/advice is appreciated. 

Thank you,