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Youth and their families face substantial debt when they become involved with the court system.

These charges don't impose accountability. They represent an injustice that deepens existing racial and economic disparities, limits future potential, and undermines family stability. It is a compounding burden that pushes children deeper into the justice system, increasing the likelihood they will remain involved well into adulthood.

DebtFreeJustice organizes and supports state and local campaigns to help raise awareness and coordinate efforts to end this unfair practice.

We work at the local, state, and federal levels to abolish juvenile fees and fines through policy advocacy, litigation, and research, and by connecting a community of like-minded advocates. With wins in more than a dozen states, the campaign strives to eliminate this unfair and unjust practice nationwide. 

Our Approach: 

• Ending—not mending—fees and fines
• Centering racial justice
• Building grassroots power