Self-Determination
1. Case Selection Priorities (PADD, PAIMI and PAIR):
a) Guardianship Defense, Restoration of Rights, and Fundamental Rights of Wards.
b) Parental Rights - disability must be primary issue for representation; if insufficient resources for representation or disability is not primary issue -offer technical assistance to public
2. Special Initiatives:
a. Involving People with Disabilities in the Public Policy Process (funding from PADD, PAIMI and PAIR)
Goal: EFE will directly involve more people with disabilities in the public policy making process by training people with disabilities, and providing them with technical assistance and up to date legislative and other policy-related information.
b. Safeguarding the Rights of Wards to Prevent Involuntary Placement Outside Mental Health Code Provisions (funding from PAIMI)
Goal: In response to the Illinois Appellate Court decision in Muellner v. Blessing Hospital, EFE will advocate that people who are receiving mental health services in a facility are given the protections of the state mental health code and not being involuntarily institutionalized. EFE will also continue to develop and disseminate related educational materials for consumers, guardians, attorneys and facilities.
c. Education on Self Determination for OSG Wards in Institutions (funding from PADD)
Goal: Through outreach and training, EFE will assist OSG wards with disabilities in institutions to better understand their rights to live where they choose.
d. Education of Citizens regarding Sterilization Policies in Probate Court
Goal: EFE will educate policymakers, people with disabilities and other interested parties regarding the current lack of safeguards with respect to the involuntary sterilization of people with disabilities.
e. The Impact of Temporary Guardianship on the Rights of People with Disabilities Within Guardianship Proceedings.
Goal: EFE will enhance the court's and public's understanding of temporary guardianship and the protections for people with disabilities afforded by the probate statute by representing individuals, conducting guardianship trainings and developing a fact sheet about the legal rights of people with disabilities under temporary guardianship.
f. Training Institute for Disability Rights (primary funding from state and private funders with additional funding from PADD, PAIMI, PAIR and PATBI)
Goal: Provide disability rights trainings statewide to people with disabilities and their families, as well as professionals and service providers on self-determination issues including: guardianship, advance directives and self-advocacy.
