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 over forty years.
CDEL provides free legal services to low-income older adults 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
3,073
Cases worked in 2025
12,000+
Volunteer hours worked in 2025
CDEL News & Events
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CDEL's May 2026 Newsletter
In May: CDEL features CDEL client George; CDEL welcomes Eli Ackerman; reflects on 2025-2027 Strategic Plan Progress; holds a TODI workshop; honors LGBT Older Adults Day with a POA Workshop at Center on Cottage Grove; celebrates receiving a Merit Award from Impact Grants Chicago; spotlights Legal Director Stephanie Ridella Vittands; and thanks our May Pro Bono and Community Partners!
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CDEL Announces 2025 Strategic Plan!
Over the past year, CDEL made meaningful progress advancing its strategic priorities laid out in our 2025 Strategic Plan
We invite you to read about our progress in our 2026 CDEL Strategic Plan Progress Report.
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CDEL Receives Merit Award from Impact Grants Chicago!
Over the past 6 months, CDEL participated in a competitive process to receive a coveted Impact Grant Award. May 27th was the culmination of that process, with more than 350 Impact Grant Committee members voting to award CDEL, one of just 7 grantees, a $40,000 Merit Award. Sincere thanks to Impact Grants Chicago for an inspiring event and for the honor of being a grantee, and a callout to the other six organization grantees for the incredible work they do.
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Support CDEL's Runners in the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon!
CDEL is proud to be a charity partner in the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon! We are so grateful to the ten runners who are running and fundraising on behalf of CDEL! Learn more and support their fundraising journeys as they head towards race day!