KU Legal Aid plans clinic to help clear legal records for little to no cost

LAWRENCE, Kan. (WIBW) – The University of Kansasthe Douglas Co. District Attorney’s Office and the Lawrence Public Library teamed up to help clear legal records at little to no cost through a clinic in September.

The University of Kansas said the law school legal aid clinic will host a clean criminal record removal clinic with the Douglas Co. District Attorney’s Office and the Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont St., from noon to 3 p.m. on September 12.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with the District Attorney’s Office and, for the first time, to partner with the Saint-Laurent Public Library to bring this streamlined delisting process to the community,” said Melanie Daily, director of KU’s legal aid clinic.

KU noted that expungement seals a record of arrest, hijacking or conviction from public view with certain exceptions. He said the Legal aid clinic will provide free representation to eligible individuals seeking to expunge records in Douglas Co. District Court or Lawrence Municipal Court.

“For those who are eligible, radiation can have life-changing consequences. People who get expunged can apply for better jobs, volunteer their time, get better housing, and participate in our community in many more productive ways once their records are cleared to reflect who they are now, rather than what they did a long time ago. Working with the prosecutor’s office allows us to advise and represent more people, more effectively, so people can go through court and get on with their lives,” Daily said.

The University said the clinic can accept clients with an income up to 250% of the federal poverty level. Those who are eligible for representation, but who are not eligible for a per filing fee waiver from the court will have to pay court costs – but not attorney fees – as long as they are eligible for service.

After the Intake Clinic day at the library, KU said clients will need to attend an additional appointment and any required hearings with their legal aid attorney.

“This radiation clinic is a significant opportunity for those with criminal records to get a real second chance,” Douglas County District Attorney Suzanne Valdez said. “We are fortunate to be able to partner with the Legal Aid Clinic to help make our communities safer and stronger by supporting those who are committed to change.

For more information about the clinic or eligibility for disbarment, contact the Legal Aid Clinic at 785-864-5564.

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