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Terms Used In Illinois Compiled Statutes 725 ILCS 165/3

  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Probable cause: A reasonable ground for belief that the offender violated a specific law.
     If, however, it should appear to the court that the complaint is unfounded, the defendant shall be dismissed. When, in addition, the court is of the opinion that the proceeding was commenced maliciously without probable cause, it may enter judgment against the complainant for the costs of the prosecution.