March 20, 2024
LA County Library Helps Individuals Break Barriers to Careers and Education Through Criminal Record Expungement Clinics
In partnership with the Los Angeles County Public Defender, LA County Library Hosts Three Expungement Clinics
In an effort to transform lives, LA County Library is joining forces with the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office to host three criminal record Expungement Clinics this spring. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to community empowerment and supporting legal rehabilitation, by offering hope for individuals seeking to clear their records of prior arrests and convictions.
Understanding Expungement:
Expungement offers a legal pathway to either erase or conceal juvenile court records, though law enforcement and certain federal agencies may retain access under specific circumstances. For adults, this process allows for the dismissal of charges, provided that all probation terms have been satisfied, or in special situations, when it aligns with the interests of justice. Expungement can unlock new possibilities in careers, education, housing, and other areas of life by eliminating the obstacles associated with having a criminal record.
“This initiative is a testament to the power of community and legal systems working hand in hand to foster positive change,” said LA County Library Director, Skye Patrick. “We are proud to work alongside the Public Defender’s Office to facilitate these life-changing clinics.”
“The Office of the Public Defender’s record expungement services are essential to breaking down barriers that prevent individuals from accessing resources like housing and employment that many of us take for granted,” said LA County Public Defender Ricardo D. Garcia. “By partnering with LA County Library to host expungement clinics our teams have an opportunity to meet constituents within their communities and provide them with the tools to change their life trajectory. It brings us one step closer to ensuring equitable access to justice.”
Nearly 40 people have received help clearing their record at two clinics held thus far, at East Los Angeles Library and Huntington Park Library, and LA County Library hopes to help connect many more at its next three clinics.
Clinic Eligibility and Requirements:
Participants must not be in violation of any law, on parole, or on probation. Attendees are urged to bring pertinent case documents, such as court records and minute orders, to aid the expungement process.
Expungement Clinics Schedule and Locations:
- San Fernando Library: Tuesday, March 26, 2 – 6 pm
- Live Oak Library: Thursday, April 11, 2 – 6 pm
- A C Bilbrew Library: Thursday, May 2, 2 – 6 pm
The clinics will offer guidance in both English and Spanish.
For more information on the Expungement Clinics, go to LACountyLibrary.org/Clean-Your-Record.
About LA County Library
Founded in 1912, LA County Library is one of the largest and most innovative library systems in the US. It provides culturally responsive and dynamic collections, programs, and services to meet the literacy, information, personal enrichment, and entertainment needs of all residents across Los Angeles County. Dedicated to reducing barriers and increasing equitable access for all, LA County Library serves 3.4 million residents across 3,000 square miles through its 86 libraries, and mobile fleet of 15 vehicles, including 4 Bookmobiles, 6 MākMō (maker mobiles), 3 early literacy vehicles, and 2 mobile outreach vehicles. To learn more, visit LACountyLibrary.org and follow @LACountyLibrary on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
