Trying to solve Philly’s eviction crisis with free lawyers
City Council is expected to vote next week on a bill to guarantee lawyers for low-income renters. Could it help fix Philly's eviction crisis?
Listen 13:46
Laron Campbell, a Philadelphia resident who narrowly avoideded eviction with the help of Community Legal Services, testifies during a City Council hearing on a bill that would guarantee legal counsel for evictees. (Emma Lee/WHYY)
Many Philadelphians are unfairly evicted because they don’t have lawyers to represent them, fueling a crisis in the city. That’s why City Council is expected to vote next week on a bill to guarantee attorneys for low-income renters. Could it really help? WHYY’s PlanPhilly reporter Jake Blumgart breaks it down.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.
Brought to you by The Why
The Why
There’s more to every story if you take the time to tell it.
Housing advocates say Philly’s for-profit eviction system lacks dignity and compassion
During a committee hearing, lawmakers looked for potential ways to improve the city’s Landlord and Tenant Office.
2 years ago
Listen 1:11
Landlord-tenant officer shoots woman during eviction in North Philly; police investigating
Police are investigating what went wrong when an eviction officer went to serve papers at a complex near Girard College.
2 years ago
More Philly renters facing eviction will have access to free legal representation
More Philly renters with low income will be able to get free legal representation. The program is designed to help those at risk of losing their homes to eviction.
2 years ago
Listen 1:16