Understanding Eviction Court: Early Resolution Program
The Early Resolution Program (ERP) is a free program to all residents of Cook County. It is provided through Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt (CCLAHD), a county-wide initiative to help resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues.
ERP connects landlords and tenants to:
- Free legal aid attorneys who may help with negotiations if the tenant identifies concrete, achievable settlement offers (payment plan, move-out date, or full payment ready)
- Mediation services: a chance for a landlord and tenant to resolve issues with the help of a knowledgeable and neutral person
- Connection to rental assistance
A tenant does not need to have a court case to be connected to ERP. Call 855-956-5763 or visit Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt (CCLAHD).
A tenant will be referred to the Early Resolution Program on their first court date in Cook County. The case will be continued for 3-4 weeks as the tenant participates in the Early Resolution Program.
If the tenant and landlord are unable to come to an agreement/settlement, then the case will be continue down the eviction process towards trial.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.