The goal of the Early Resolution Program (ERP) is to meet the needs of the growing population of self-represented litigations facing eviction. ERP was developed by the Circuit Court of Cook County and the Administrative Office of Illinois Courts in partnership with the Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice. The program helps promote, facilitate, and enhance equal access to justice. 

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The ERP connects tenants facing eviction with legal aid and other resources to work towards a resolution with their landlord to remain housed in the unit. 

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The criteria to be invited into the program includes:
 

• The Petitioner must be self-represented;

• A Summons must have been issued; and 

• Cases must be filed at the Daley Center.
   

It is critical that a tenant facing eviction be present at their first eviction hearing and not represented by an attorney to get enrolled in the Early Resolution Program. When the tenant's case is called, they may then be referred to the ERP, where they can connect with legal aid and other resources. Additionally, during the first hearing, a second hearing will be scheduled. It is imperative that a tenant attend BOTH hearings otherwise a default judgment against them will be issued. 

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The program benefits for the party/parties include:
 

• There is no charge for the ERP session(s);

• Meet with an impartial Hearing Officer who will provide early intervention and make recommendations on cases;

• Become informed on what to expect during the process of litigation;

• Become informed on a variety of resources;

• Learn about the process in a positive and impartial environment;

• Learn to successfully navigate through the court system, resulting in fewer visits to court; and

• In instances where parties have an agreement, parties will leave the session with all relevant documents and instructions to appear before their assigned calendar/judge. 

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