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Northwest Justice Project At Debt Collection Defense Clinic

Community Resource

Serves: Seattle, King County

About this resource

This program provides legal support for low-income individuals facing debt challenges, such as lawsuits, debt collection issues, collection agency misconduct, supplemental proceedings, and garnishment.

Intake Process: Residents of King County can call to check their eligibility. Those who qualify will receive a return call from a debt clinic attorney or paralegal for guidance and support. (If there is a scheduling conflict, alternative callback times can be arranged). If the caller has a court deadline within 5 days, or is facing imminent garnishment or immediate bank account seizure, they should send an NJP Consumer Fax instead of being directed to the Debt Collection Defense Clinic. Clients who wish to communicate in ASL via video phone should also be referred to CLEAR*ASL, regardless of whether they are sent to the CLEAR line.

Costs: There are no fees for this service.

Who can use this

Individuals with low income, specifically those whose household earnings are at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, are eligible. A household is defined as individuals living together who make joint financial decisions and may include family members who rely on the household income, even if they do not reside with the client. All sources of income accessible to the client should be considered before any garnishment or taxation.

Answer a few questions to see if you qualify →