Resources for Pro Se

As an employee, you may hire an attorney or act as your own attorney when proceeding before the IWCC.  If you do not hire an attorney (called "pro se" or "for oneself"), you will need to become familiar with both the procedural rules and substantive law that apply to your case.  

The IWCC uses CompFile, an electronic filing system for workers' compensation cases.  Effective April 21, 2021, attorneys and pro se litigants must electronically file all cases and documents in CompFile. Prior to filing any document electronically with the IWCC, users are required to register for an account with CompFile. You can learn about CompFile and review user manuals, frequently asked questions, and instructional videos on the CompFile Implementation page. 

Please refer to the following resources for more information: 

• Pro Se Petitioner's Guide to Filing a Case
• Guidelines for Employees Filing a Case Without an Attorney
• Appearance of Representative – Pro Se Form [Word.doc] [Adobe PDF]

• Illinois Workers' Compensation Act
• Rules Governing Practice Before the Commission
• Handbook on Workers' Compensation and Occupational Diseases

The parties to a pro se settlement must appear at a hearing before an Arbitrator prior to approval of the settlement contract.  Learn more about the process for seeking approval of a pro se settlment contract.