Justice with Compassion

How Homeless Court Facilitates the Journey to a More Stable Future

In 2016, the South Carolina Supreme Court empowered the City of Charleston to establish Homeless Court to address the root causes of homelessness through a compassionate legal approach. Months later, One80 Place and its partners successfully launched and piloted the first ever Homeless Court in the state. The impact of the pilot was significant in reducing the burden for those experiencing homelessness and on the conventional court system.

Since inception, the court meets monthly at One80 Place.

Every participant is provided counsel and service providers can attend and speak on their behalf. Once participants are successfully housed, minor charges are typically reduced or dismissed.

By providing tailored legal proceedings, representation andemphasizing alternative sentencing, this innovative system promotes stability,fosters rehabilitation and reduces recidivism.