CRIMINAL RECORDS

CLS represents individuals with “indicated” child abuse reports that directly affect their employment by helping them appeal the reports and advocating with the agencies that maintain the child abuse registry.

CLS can assist individuals who cannot access public benefits due to a criminal record and determine eligibility for criminal record clearing.

CLS advocates for workers with records to have fair access to employment by utilizing legal protections under local, state, and federal law, and challenges laws that broadly exclude people with records from work.

CLS represents people to help them clear up their records through the expungement, sealing, and pardon processes. CLS also advises people about whether they have or will benefit from automated record sealing.

Individuals with criminal records may owe court fines, fees, or costs on their cases, which can prevent record clearing. CLS can help waive or reduce debts when possible, and negotiate affordable payment plans.

Individuals with felony or certain misdemeanor convictions can only clear their records by applying for pardons from the Governor. CLS advises and represents a limited number of individuals seeking pardons.