Reform Work

Justice fees are hidden taxes that governments charge at multiple points of interaction with the criminal justice system, regardless of your guilt or innocence. These fees are attached to minor traffic tickets, ‘free’ public defenders, and even emergency medical care when you’re in jail. Their sole purpose is to raise revenue for governments.

If you can’t afford to pay these fees, you risk license suspension, arrest, and jail. People living paycheck-to-paycheck and communities of color are disproportionately impacted by fees, but anyone who misses just one payment can be trapped in a cycle of debt and punishment.

End Justice Fees is the first national campaign dedicated to ending fees in the justice system and putting money back in the pockets of working families.

Driver’s license suspensions cost jobs, cut economic growth, and undermine public safety — all while keeping families stuck in debt for years. An inability to pay a fine or fee should never determine who is free to drive. 

FFJC’s New Mexico Team is leading a powerful statewide movement to end the unjust fines, fees, and debt collection practices that keep families trapped in debt and locked out of opportunities.

FFJC’s Nevada Team is leading a bold statewide movement to end the unjust fines, fees and debt collection practices that trap families in debt, funnel individuals into the fee-to-prison pipeline, and hinder returning citizens from succeeding upon release.

FFJC’s New York Team is leading a bold, nonpartisan, statewide movement to eliminate the predatory justice system fees that hold people back. Passing the End Predatory Fees Act will move us toward a fairer justice system that serves all New Yorkers.

FFJC drives local reform by partnering with local governments, law enforcement agencies, community groups, and organizations. We offer specialized technical assistance and strategic support to local authorities and leaders dedicated to systemic change.