Illinois § 5-20
Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 5-20, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-20.
Burden of proof and evidentiary matters. (a) In any administrative, civil, or criminal proceeding related to this Law, the burden of proving an exemption, an exception from a definition or an exclusion from this Law is upon the person claiming it. (b) In any action, administrative, civil, or criminal, a certificate under the seal of the State of Illinois, signed by the Secretary of State, attesting to the filing of or the absence of any filing of any document or record with the Secretary of State under this Act, shall constitute prima facie evidence of such filing or of the absence of the filing, and shall be admissible in evidence in any administrative, criminal, or civil action. (c) In any administrative, civil, or criminal action, the Secretary of State may issue a certificate under the seal of the State of Illinois, signed by the Secretary of State, showing that any document or record is a true and exact copy, photocopy or otherwise, of the record or document on file with the Secretary of State under this Act; and such certified document or record shall be admissible in evidence with the same effect as the original document or record would have if actually produced. (d) Any certificate pursuant to subsection (b) or (c) of this Section shall be furnished by the Secretary of State upon an application therefor in the form and manner prescribed by the Secretary of State by rule, and shall be accompanied by payment of a non-refundable certification fee in the amount specified by rule or by order of the Secretary of State. (Source: P.A. 92-308, eff. 1-1-02.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 5-20
What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 5-20 cover?
Section 5-20 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Illinois § 5-20?
A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 5-20" (Illinois). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Illinois law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.
How does Illinois § 5-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.