City Could Save $45M with Tenant Legal Help

"The costs of evictions in the city are high both for tenant and taxpayer.

But a new study found the city could save approximately $45 million a year in costs related to the eviction process by investing $3.5 million to provide legal counsel to low-income tenants facing evictions.

On Tuesday, the Philadelphia Bar Association released the year-long study, “Economic Return on Investment for Providing Counsel in Philadelphia Eviction Cases for Low-Income Tenants,” which was completed by Chicago-based Stout Risius Ross LLC.

Mary Platt, chancellor for the nonprofit Philadelphia Bar Association, said she was not surprised the city would save funds by investing in these legal services.

“Investing in legal counsel for low-income tenants facing eviction is one of the most effective measures to prevent evictions and homelessness, which in turn will result in significant cost savings and benefits for our community,” Platt said in a released statement.

Mayor Jim Kenney’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday. City offices were closed Monday due to the observation of Veterans Day..."

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