Jason* had experienced long-term homelessness after the loss of a family member and a relationship breakdown. His circumstances were exacerbated by complex physical and mental health issues, along with an alcohol dependency.
Jason had over 100 unaddressed fines related to his homelessness and other vulnerabilities, including drinking in public and parking offences from when he was sleeping in his car.
Jason was referred to Homeless Law through his support worker. The intake team at Homeless Law booked him into a legal appointment. The lawyers talked Jason through his options to deal with his fines, which included the option to apply for a review of the fines based on experiencing ‘special circumstances’. His special circumstances included his homelessness and alcohol dependency which substantially contributed to Jason getting the fines.
The lawyers then helped Jason to apply for a review of his fines based on his special circumstances. Fines Victoria agreed to waive over $47,000 of fines.
Jason also had several other old debts related to his personal and financial disadvantage, including an alleged essential service charge which had been referred to debt collectors. Homeless Law’s lawyers engaged in extensive hardship negotiations with the debt collectors to stop debt collection activities.
After having the heavy burden of his fines and debts lifted through Homeless Law’s legal assistance, Jason has been able to move into stable housing during COVID-19, along with completing a detox program and securing ongoing NDIS-funded supports.
*Names have been changed to preserve anonymity
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