Standing Up for Constitutional Rights: Public Justice Challenges Glendale’s Panhandling Bans

At Advocate Capital, we’re proud to support the work of organizations like Public Justice, which consistently steps in to fight for fairness, equity, and constitutional rights. Their latest case, alongside the ACLU of Arizona and the First Amendment Clinic at Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, challenges Glendale, Arizona, ordinances that criminalize panhandling.

In October 2022, Glendale passed two ordinances targeting panhandling and pedestrian presence in public spaces. These measures effectively made it illegal for individuals to ask for donations or occupy medians and streets for any purpose, including free speech. Violations could result in steep fines of up to $2,500 or even jail time. Public Justice says these penalties disproportionately harm those already struggling with homelessness or financial insecurity.

This lawsuit, filed on behalf of three Glendale residents, argues that the ordinances violate the First Amendment by criminalizing constitutionally protected speech. Federal courts nationwide, including in Arizona, have repeatedly struck down similar panhandling bans as unconstitutional.

Public Justice’s Debtors’ Prison Project Director Leslie Bailey points out that laws like these punish people for asking for help instead of addressing the root causes of poverty and homelessness. When cities impose fines and jail time for seeking support, they perpetuate cycles of hardship rather than creating pathways to stability.

At Advocate Capital, we deeply value Public Justice's work to protect vulnerable communities, uphold civil rights, and ensure that the law is applied fairly. Their dedication to challenging unjust systems reflects a commitment to justice that echoes our mission of empowering plaintiff attorneys who fight everyday for those without a voice.

Organizations like Public Justice advocate for a legal system where fairness prevails. Advocate Capital is proud to support the critical work of Public Justice and their partners in this case.

About Donna A. Jones

Donna Jones is the President at Advocate Capital, which became a part of Pinnacle in 2019. Ms. Jones is a member of the Board of Directors of Advocate Capital and serves as a member of the Credit Committee. Her responsibilities include education and training of Advocate Capital staff regarding civil litigation, coaching new clients on the fundamentals of Advocate’s online services, as well as its proprietary software application, AdvoTrac®, and all activities related to existing and prospective clients.