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
CDEL’s Winter Awards Benefit is on February 27th!
Each February, CDEL supporters gather to celebrate CDEL and honor CDEL's Volunteer of the Year, Partner of the Year, and Impact Award winners. Please save the date for CDEL’s 2025 “Light up the Loop” Winter Awards Benefit on Thursday, February 27th, 2025 at Baker McKenzie!
CDEL’s December 2024 Newsletter
In December: CDEL Reflects on Celebrating 40 Years; CDEL Staff, Board, and YPB Come Together for Year End Mixer, CDEL’s YPB Welcomes 7 New Members; CDEL is Hiring a Development Director; Run with CDEL in the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon; Save the Date for CDEL’s 2025 Winter Awards Benefit on 2/27/2025; and CDEL thanks our December Pro Bono and Community Partners!
Thank You for Celebrating CDEL’s 40th Anniversary!
In 2024, CDEL celebrated its 40th Anniversary in service to our mission and our clients! We spent the year reflecting and celebrating the success of CDEL over the last four decades. Learn more about CDEL’s history by watching a quick video, looking at a timeline of CDEL’s accomplishments, or by reading a Blast from the Past article about an important person or part of CDEL’s history!