The ISBA Bench and Bar Section Council has received approval from the Board of Governors to explore and seek funding for establishment of a self-help desk for eligible landlords and tenants who appear pro se in eviction cases.

Chicago attorney Joan C. Grant, a past chair of the section council, and Associate Judge Mary R. Minella, a council member, told board members on July 20 that the pilot project would assist both litigants and judges in Cook County Eviction and Forcible Entry and Detainer Courts in the Daley Center.

They added that it would not duplicate or conflict with similar programs because the self-help desk would only provide information, not representation.

Pro se individuals frequently appear for hearings without being able to state their cases appropriately, Grant said. Courts then need to devote valuable time to explain basic procedures or expedite rulings without necessary information from the parties.

The help desk would be administered by the Coordinated Advice and Referral Program for Legal Services (CARPLS) and staffed by trained volunteers, paid staff and Rule 711 law students.

ISBA will approach other bar associations and foundations for support.

Landlords and tenants who qualify would learn about their rights, what to expect in court, what documents they might need, and whether they have valid defenses.

The goal of the project is to improve the timely administration and disposition of high-volume pro se cases by enhancing the knowledge and readiness of litigants in advance of appearances.

An average of 82 pro se litigants appear each day in eviction cases in Cook County.