What is Everyone Counts?

Everyone Counts Day assesses the needs of the self-represented litigants and how best to address them.

For two years, The Florida Bar Foundation organized Everyone Counts, a volunteer-driven, single-day census of self-represented litigants at courthouses throughout Miami-Dade County. Everyone Counts captures a snapshot of the needs of those who either can’t afford or do not seek legal help, including those ineligible for civil legal aid or whom legal aid and pro bono programs lacked the resources to serve. The results will inform collaborative efforts to better serve these individuals.

Everyone Counts 2018 took place on May 15^th in all 10 courthouses in Miami-Dade County. The event engaged lawyers and law students in observations of court proceedings and data collection under parameters agreed to by the courts.

Ultimately, volunteers witnessed the need first-hand and helped improve our judicial system for all involved. The invaluable data gathered will be employed in the mission to expand access to justice, not only in Florida, but nationwide.