property. Often, a summary citation is a child’s first entry into the criminal legal system and, from OPD’s standpoint, an opportunity to enter the school to prison pipeline. OPD’s summary attorneys seek to get charges dismissed without the child having to pay court costs and other fines. In truancy matters, the summary attorneys attempt to resolve any barriers to school attendance by reviewing children’s individualized educational programs and educational options to create a pathway toward graduation. In 2023, OPD provided education advocacy to 242 new clients and directly helped more than 79 kids enroll in school. The summary project handled over 190 cases and closed over 93% of its summary cases without a conviction and without payment of court costs.
Improving Intake For the first time in history, OPD now has an online intake form that allows clients to apply for services without a phone call or a visit. With the online form, clients can apply for a public defender 24/7, in their own time. QR codes posted in magistrates’ offices and printed on office business cards allow individuals to access the intake form online using a computer or mobile device. Around 50 people a day use the online intake form to qualify for representation. Exit Project /Juvenile Summary Representation Project As part of the Juvenile Division’s Exit Project, OPD continues to represent children charged with summary offenses. These children must appear before a Magisterial District Judge. Citations include such offenses as: getting into a fight at school or in the community, damaging property in a park or other community area, truancy, and purely accidental offenses against others or to
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