No one should have to choose between putting food on the table or paying a court fee. Yet every year, courts and state agencies charge young people in the juvenile legal system millions of dollars in fines, fees, and taxes. That’s why the U.S. Department of Justice has urged courts across the country to stop this practice.
We’re working to eliminate juvenile court debt across the South so that young people and their families can move forward with their lives.
If you’re struggling to pay off fees, fines, or restitution from a juvenile court case in a Southern state, we want to connect! Please fill out this short form and someone from our team will be in touch shortly.
Who we are
Ubuntu Village is a non-profit organization based in New Orleans, LA and working across the South. We advocate for, educate, and organize with families of children in the legal system. We are part of the national Debt Free Justice campaign to eliminate fines and fees in juvenile court, which we successfully campaigned for in Louisiana.
Why reach out?
- Change the system: People who are closest to the problem are closest to the solution. If you have direct experience with the juvenile legal system, you are the best advocate for changing that system. We can offer support and connect you with others in your state.
- Share your story: It’s one thing to hear the statistics. It’s another to hear the stories from real people affected by fines and fees. Your story matters. We take confidentiality seriously and will not share your story without your express consent. Filling out the form does not commit you to sharing your story.
- Pay your debt: We can offer limited financial assistance to help people pay their juvenile fines and fees. Grantees must meet certain criteria; filling out the form does not guarantee financial assistance, but it is the first step.
We want to hear from you! Fill out this short form to get connected.