Motion attacking a pleading other than the complaint
In Illinois, a motion attacking a pleading other than the complaint must be filed within 21 days after the last day allowed for filing the pleading attacked. Enter that last day.
- Ill. S. Ct. R. 182(c)
- 5 ILCS 70/1.11
Find your motion deadline
Motions against answers, replies, counterclaims and other pleadings.
Count from the deadline for that pleading, not the day it was filed.
Holidays and court closures
Common Illinois court holidays are skipped, including Lincoln's Birthday. Add any other day your court was closed.
For weather or emergency closures. Check the court's notice to confirm it extends deadlines.
How the deadline is counted
- Find the last day allowed for the pleading you are attacking, such as an answer, reply or affirmative defense.
- Count 21 days.
- Move past closed days to the next day the court is open.
Worked examples
| Example | Last day for pleading | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Pleading deadline on a Monday | Mon, Oct 26, 2026 | Mon, Nov 16, 2026 |
| Pleading deadline in December | Fri, Dec 4, 2026 | Mon, Dec 28, 2026 |
Motions directed at the complaint are governed by Rule 181 and the summons, not Rule 182. Replies to answers are due 21 days after the last day allowed for the answer under Rule 182(a).
Common questions
When must a motion to strike affirmative defenses be filed in Illinois?
Within 21 days after the last day allowed for filing the answer containing the defenses, under Rule 182(c).
Does this cover motions against the complaint?
No. Those follow Rule 181 and the time stated in the summons.
Can the court change the deadline?
Yes. Rule 183 allows extensions for good cause.
Sources
- Illinois Supreme Court Rule 182
- Illinois Supreme Court Rule 183
- 5 ILCS 70/1.11
Rules last checked October 2026. This calculator does not give legal advice. Confirm the date against the rule and any order in your case.