Cleveland Housing Court

As the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Specialist for Cleveland Housing Court, Ashley Everett plays a vital role in helping individuals navigate difficult housing disputes with clarity and dignity.

Ashley’s journey into ADR began in 2017 while serving as a law clerk at Housing Court. Under the mentorship of the court’s longtime ADR specialist, she quickly recognized the power of the process—not just as a tool for resolution, but as a way to ensure people feel heard, informed, and empowered.

Through her work, Ashley helps humanize landlord-tenant litigation. She is a strong advocate for creating space where parties can openly share their perspectives, ask questions, and work toward meaningful outcomes. Her goal is simple but impactful: to facilitate resolutions where all parties walk away feeling respected and understood.

Before returning to Housing Court, Ashley served as an Adjunct Professor of Law and a Postdoctoral Scholar at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and worked with local nonprofits. Most recently, she served as an Equity Specialist & Investigator at Case Western Reserve University.

Ashley’s work reflects a deep commitment to fairness, access, and meaningful resolution—ensuring that every voice has the opportunity to be heard.

This Women’s History Month, we recognize Etoi Shaquila Young for her 28 years of public service and her unwavering commitment to helping others.

Etoi began her journey as a Deputy Bailiff, where she witnessed the human side of housing instability and the challenges people face while navigating complex legal systems. Rather than seeing cases, she saw people. That perspective shaped every step of her career.

Over the years, Etoi served as Housing Court Specialist, Deputy Chief Housing Court Specialist, Personal Bailiff, Case Manager Supervisor, Program Manager, and ultimately Court Administrator. In each role, she worked to ensure that the law served not only justice, but dignity—helping families understand their options, connecting residents with resources, and working to prevent homelessness whenever possible.

Her leadership has strengthened initiatives focused on lead-safe living, homelessness prevention, home repair assistance, safe and equitable housing, and meaningful community engagement. Her dedication has improved housing outcomes and strengthened neighborhoods across Cleveland.

Etoi is a recipient of the 72nd Annual Franklin A. Polk Public Servants Merit Award from the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and was also honored as a 2023 Mayor’s City Innovator Award recipient in Cleveland.

Tracey Berger serves as a Housing Court Administrative Assistant and Scheduler with the Cleveland Municipal Court, Housing Division.

Before joining Housing Court in 2024, she served the City of Cleveland for eight years, including seven years as an EMS (911) Dispatcher—experience that helped shape her discipline, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure.

Known for her steady presence and positive energy, Tracey approaches her work with purpose, professionalism, and a commitment to growth. Colleagues value her ability to bring both focus and just the right touch of personality to the workplace.

During Women’s History Month, Cleveland Housing Court proudly recognizes Tracey Berger for her dedication, strong work ethic, and continued service to the public.

Jessica E. Alvis is a Magistrate with the Cleveland Housing Court.

She began her legal career as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Cuyahoga County, pursuing justice for children who were abused, neglected, and dependent. Since that time, Magistrate Alvis has cultivated a legal career centered on helping and serving others.

Magistrate Alvis previously served as Director of Court Services for the Lorain County Domestic Relations and Juvenile Court. In that role, she helped launch the Court’s Help Center, ensuring that residents of Lorain County receive equal access to justice.

She has also demonstrated dedication to the mission and values of the Cleveland Housing Court while serving in roles such as staff attorney, personal bailiff, and now as magistrate.