The Importance of Permanent Funding for Legal Help in Phoenix
Since July 2020, the City of Phoenix has been investing millions of federal funding in a temporary right to counsel program for tenants facing eviction. Advocates are now pushing for this program to become permanent, citing the success of similar initiatives in other cities.
Amidst the surge of eviction cases in Maricopa County, with 7,957 new cases filed in August alone, the need for legal assistance for tenants has never been more critical. The Tenants Eviction Assistance Project, a collaboration between the City of Phoenix and Community Legal Services, has been providing much-needed support since 2020.
Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington of District 8 emphasized the importance of government-funded legal help for tenants, pointing to the cost savings experienced by cities like Philadelphia, which invested in similar programs. By ensuring that tenants have legal representation, cities can avoid the long-term costs associated with evictions.
Despite the fact that nearly all landlords have legal representation at eviction hearings, less than 1% of tenants are represented. This power imbalance often results in unfairly resolved cases, leading to homelessness for many tenants.
Community Legal Services plays a crucial role in advocating for tenants’ rights, providing legal expertise to navigate the complexities of eviction proceedings. By having legal representation, tenants have a better chance of negotiating settlements and avoiding evictions on their records.
The Phoenix Industrial Development Authority is currently conducting a cost-benefit analysis to determine the economic impact of permanent funding for the right to counsel program in Phoenix. Advocates from the Take Back Our Homes campaign believe that this analysis will demonstrate the financial benefits of investing in legal assistance for tenants.
For individuals facing eviction, seeking legal assistance as soon as possible is crucial. Community Legal Services offers online support and in-person assistance at various locations throughout the city. By taking proactive steps to seek legal help, tenants can protect their housing rights and prevent homelessness.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out to Community Legal Services for assistance and support in navigating the eviction process.
