LFAA Resources

Diversion Programs to Assist Defendants in Civil Court

In debt-collection court in Philadelphia, judgments -- by agreement, by default, or as the result of a trial -- disproportionately affect people of color, who are also typically unrepresented. This memo explores the different opportunities afforded to defendants nationwide to assist defendants with settling their cases. These services include court-mandated mediation, diversion programs, and debt reduction programs. The listed programs will serve as a template for Philadelphia as it explore how to best assist defendants in debt-collection court. ...Read more