Getting started with eviction diversion 

Eviction diversion programs help courts connect landlords and tenants with resources to resolve housing disputes outside of traditional litigation. While the most effective programs are tailored to meet the specific needs in your community and to work within the structure of your court system, there are considerations common to all eviction diversion efforts.

Our experts have created guidelines that address issues shared by all models of eviction diversion programs. Some key methods your court can employ are explored below, and you can also find more resources to help build effective programs.

Timing is everything

Clear entry points for eviction diversion programs create pathways for litigants during the pre-filing, post-filing, in-court, and post-judgment phases.

The most effective programs may have multiple entry points, ensuring landlords and tenants can connect with resources before or after cases are filed. 

• Pre-filing programs offer early intervention and can help landlords avoid court fees and tenants avoid eviction records.
• Post-filing and in-court programs use the court process to directly connect litigants with available resources including legal aid, mediation, social services, and rental assistance.
• Post-judgment support focuses on helping tenants plan for a move that will minimize disruption and reduce the risk of future evictions.

Finding the best access points for your program requires understanding state laws, available funding, and the capacity of your community partners to support eviction diversion.

Real-world examples that work

In Colorado Springs, Colo. the court offers pre-filing mediation to landlords and tenants looking to resolve cases outside of a court setting. In Houston, the court asks plaintiffs to provide contact information for tenants so the diversion program can reach out before the first court date to connect litigants with housing, employment, education, and other resources. And in Lawrence Township, Ind., court navigators are available during court to provide legal information and wraparound referrals along with onsite connections to legal aid and settlement negotiation assistance.

Read report

Boosting the court-community connection

Successful eviction diversion programs include community partners that support litigants by helping with immediate needs such as legal aid, mediation, and rental assistance.

Partners can also address underlying issues that include housing stability, financial counseling, and the availability of mental health services.

Here are some steps that can bolster your community connection:

• Make referrals part of the process and include in-court assistance and case management.
• Offer easy to understand materials written in plain language.
• Set up information-sharing agreements and maintain communication with community partners to track referrals and improve the system over time.
• Schedule regular check-ins with partners to continuously improve programs, measure success, and ensure eviction diversion remains a reliable safety net.

Real-world examples that work

The Tulsa (Okla.) District Court moved its eviction docket from the main downtown courthouse into a new location with free parking and direct access to a local food pantry and the Landlord-Tenant Resource Center. The Las Vegas Justice Court offers legal aid and screening for rental assistance and public benefits on-site at the courthouse. And in Milwaukee, all eviction complaints must be served with an informational flyer explaining how to access eviction diversion resources including legal aid and mediation.

Read report