The Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas is launching a Consumer Credit Card Collection Diversion Pilot Program to move rising credit card debt lawsuits through a faster, court-managed process within the city’s mandatory arbitration system. The plan is intended to fast-track credit card collection suits as consumer debt filings have increased.

All consumer credit card debt collection actions against individual defendants will be automatically scheduled for a conciliation conference, while business or commercial credit card cases are excluded. The court said filings have continued to increase, placing a greater burden on judicial resources.

For cases filed on or after June 1, 2026, plaintiffs must identify the matter as a consumer credit card collection case and attach a certification form. Those cases will enter diversion upon filing, no arbitration date will initially be scheduled, and pleading deadlines will be deferred while the case is in the program. Plaintiffs must also serve the certification form, case management order and notice, and counsel must appear with authority to discuss a possible agreement.*

The General Bar will be attending the ACA Annual Convention & Expo in Orlando! We look forward to connecting with collection agencies, creditors' rights attorneys and industry partners from around the world. It's a great opportunity to network, share ideas and learn how the General Bar can help streamline attorney placements and support your collection efforts.