Chicago City Wire

A recent report by consulting firm Stout highlights a collaborative effort in Chicago and Cook County that supports residents facing eviction. The City of Chicago Right to Counsel pilot (RTC) operates alongside the Early Resolution Program (ERP) in the Circuit Court of Cook County, providing unrepresented tenants with legal assistance tailored to their specific needs.

"This evaluation shows how access to legal representation helps protect vulnerable tenants and keeps Chicagoans stably housed," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. He acknowledged the contributions of legal aid organizations, Cook County, the Circuit Court, The Chicago Bar Foundation, and other partners involved in these programs. According to him, these initiatives are innovative approaches to preventing homelessness.

Stout's report indicates that the ERP+RTC model is unique on a national scale due to its flexible service delivery, ranging from brief advice to extensive legal representation based on each client's requirements. The report suggests this approach could be cost-effective for promoting housing stability if adequately funded.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle expressed pride in the Early Resolution Program as part of the Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt (CCLAHD) initiative. She credited Chief Judge Evans and various partners for ensuring support for residents facing eviction through collaboration.

For RTC specifically, Stout found that it aids clients in achieving housing stability goals while generating fiscal benefits for Chicago by minimizing disruptive displacement. Between February 2022 and March 2024, every dollar spent on RTC likely resulted in $2.75 to $3.35 in fiscal benefits by reducing social safety net costs related to homelessness.

"We are excited by the finding that RTC has been extremely effective in preventing eviction orders against tenants," stated Mark Swartz, Executive Director of the Law Center for Better Housing. He emphasized ongoing efforts with partners to build upon Stout’s evaluation results.

Stout works with jurisdictions nationwide developing or evaluating similar programs but noted ERP+RTC's distinctiveness due to its adaptable service model addressing high-volume cases like evictions.

Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans remarked on ERP fostering fairness during eviction proceedings by connecting unrepresented landlords and tenants with essential resources such as legal aid: "ERP helps correct inherent power imbalances."

The complete Stout report can be accessed via The Chicago Bar Foundation website at chicagobarfoundation.org. Tenants at risk of eviction are encouraged to contact the ERP helpline or connect with ERP during court appearances for further assistance available through CCLAHD at cookcountylegalaid.org.