In the initial rollout, low-income tenants in 19139 and 19121 ZIP codes are guaranteed free legal representation when facing eviction
PHILADELPHIA – Effective Tuesday, February 1, low-income renters in Philadelphia’s 19139 and 19121 ZIP codes are entitled to free legal representation if they are facing eviction. Legislation providing for guaranteed legal representation, known as Right to Counsel, was passed by City Council in November 2019. City regulation further defining the program was enacted in December 2021.
To access Right to Counsel, tenants can call the Philly Tenant Hotline at (267) 443-2500. Legal representation and support will be provided by Community Legal Services, SeniorLAW Center, Legal Clinic for the Disabled, Philly VIP, and Tenant Union Representative Network.
Right to Counsel builds on a growing network of resources for Philadelphia tenants facing eviction, including the Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project and the Eviction Diversion Program. Right to Counsel services are funded through the City’s Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project budget.
“Establishing a Right to Counsel in Philadelphia creates a new and effective tool to ensure the rights of Philadelphia renters and resolve disputes,” said Eva Gladstein, Deputy Managing Director for Health and Human Services. “Evictions overwhelmingly impact women and children and negatively affect the community as a whole. With this launch in two ZIP codes, Right to Counsel will build on the work of the Taskforce on Eviction Prevention and Response and the Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project to support tenants, ensure fair processes, and prevent unnecessary evictions.”
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