Looking To Clear A Juvenile Court Record? These Clinics May Help

Published Mar 21, 2024 5:00 AM

A beige concrete brick wall with lettering that says "A.C. Bilbrew Public Library/ Los Angeles County Library System/Biblioteca Publica/Black Resource Center."

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Topline:

The Los Angeles County Public Library wants to help eligible people clear their criminal records this spring. It’s teaming up with the Public Defender’s Office to hold three expungement clinics.

The first one is scheduled for Tuesday

The process allows people with juvenile records to get them removed or concealed, with certain exceptions, and for some adults to have their charges dismissed if they’ve met probation or other terms.

Why it matters: Defense lawyers say criminal records stemming from minor offenses like stealing food or trespassing often limit their clients’ options for housing, making the homelessness crisis worse.

Nearly 40 people have received help clearing their records after speaking to volunteers at two previous clinics, according to county authorities.

Clinics Schedule and Locations:

San Fernando Library: Tuesday, March 26, 2 – 6 p.m.
Live Oak Library: Thursday, April 11, 2 – 6 p.m.
A C Bilbrew Library: Thursday, May 2, 2 – 6 p.m.

The clinics will offer guidance in both English and Spanish.
More information is at the library’s website: LACountyLibrary.org/Clean-Your-Record and the L.A. County Public Defender’s website: https://pubdef.lacounty.gov/prop47/ola/