If you are being denied public benefits or housing due to a criminal record, CLS can help you to determine if you are eligible for criminal record clearing and assist with the clearing process.
How We Can Help
What to Bring
If you have been denied public benefits, gather any letters or other communications you have from the agency before you call or visit CLS.
We can look up your criminal record for you if you don’t have it.
Where To Get Help
- WALK IN INTAKE
Community Legal Services
Center City Office
1424 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia PA 19102
Mondays and Wednesdays 9am-12pm
North Philadelphia Office
1410 W. Erie Ave (Broad and Erie)
Philadelphia PA 19140
Mondays and Wednesdays 8:30am-11:30am
- PHONE INTAKE
Community Legal Services
215-981-3700
Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9am-12pm
About Criminal Records and Public Benefits
Having a criminal record can affect your ability to receive certain public benefits or find housing. Outstanding bench warrants, violations of probation, and a lack of compliance with court costs and restitution can prevent you from being eligible for certain government programs.
Similarly, the laws governing criminal activity in subsidized housing are very strict. If you live in Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) public housing or in Section 8 Voucher subsidized housing, or if you hope to be admitted to one of these housing programs in the future, you should know how these laws may affect you. The PHA has the authority to: (1) Deny you admission to Public Housing due to your criminal record; and (2) Evict you from Public Housing due to criminal activity. PHA also operates the Section 8 Voucher Program (also known as the “Housing Choice Voucher Program”). In addition, under the Section 8 Voucher Program, your landlord has the authority to evict you for criminal activity
