Our society has a fundamental obligation to guarantee justice for all of its members. The Center for Disability & Elder Law (CDEL) has been expanding access to justice to persons marginalized by poverty, age and/or disability, for forty years.
CDEL provides free legal services to low-income seniors and people with disabilities throughout Cook County. We focus our efforts on matters related to financial and housing stability, estate planning including end-of-life planning, divorce, and adult guardianship.
Client Testimonials
Mr. Smith’s Story
When Mr. Smith's three children were all diagnosed with the same rare neurological disorder, CDEL knew it had to help. CDEL represented Mr. Smith in becoming the childrens' guardian so he could coordinate their medical care. Later, CDEL advocated for accessible, affordable housing so the children would all have their own bedroom and space for necessary medical equipment.
Ms. Clark’s Story
Ms. Clark received an interest in property after her mother's death, but she could not access the asset due to the co-owner's refusal to communicate with her or sell the property. Urgency became necessary after Ms. Clark learned the property taxes were delinquent and she was at risk of losing the equity in the home completely. CDEL matched Ms. Clark with pro bono attorneys who represented her in court and ensured that the property was sold, the taxes were redeemed, and that Ms. Clark received her one half share of the proceeds.
"Our interaction with CDEL was nothing short of amazing. Their knowledge and background made the guardianship process an easy and flawless experience. We truly appreciate all of your help. Thanks for everything that you do!!"
Guardianship Mobile Help Desk Client
CDEL by the Numbers
3,029
Cases worked in 2023
9,900+
Volunteer hours worked in 2022
757,688
Cook County residents over the age of 65
358,735
People with a disability who live in Cook County
CDEL News & Events
Thank You for Attending CDEL’s 2024 Winter Awards Benefit!
Each February, CDEL supporters gather to honor CDEL's Volunteer of the Year, Partner of the Year, and Impact Award winners. Thank you for joining us on February 29th to to help us celebrate our award winners and CDEL’s 40th Anniversary.
CDEL’s March 2024 Newsletter
This month: CDEL Continues Celebrating its 40th Anniversary with a “Blast From the Past” interview with Erin Maus. CDEL features some of its many community workshops that took place in March; CDEL is Hiring for a Program Coordinator and a Bilingual English & Spanish Paralegal. CDEL thanks our March Pro Bono and Community Partners. Read these stories below!
CDEL Announces Strategic Plan
In October 2022, over forty-five CDEL stakeholders gathered for a summit to chart CDEL's path into the future. This group included CDEL Governing Board members, Young Professionals Board members, CDEL staff, clients, community partners, and volunteers. Our Strategic Plan Overview is the result of this empowering, invigorating day.