Youth, Rights & Justice Announces Partnership with Lewis & Clark Law School’s Criminal Justice Reform Clinic to Expand Expunction Clinic Services Statewide.

Youth, Rights & Justice Announces Partnership with Lewis & Clark Law School’s Criminal Justice Reform Clinic to Expand Expunction Clinic Services Statewide.

Portland, OR (1/21/2022) – Youth, Rights & Justice (YRJ) is thrilled to announce the expansion of our Record Relief Expunction Clinic to offer free assistance to individuals with juvenile records in any county in Oregon. Originally launched this past summer, YRJ’s Record Relief Expunction Clinic has partnered with Lewis & Clark Law School’s Criminal Justice Reform Clinic (CJRC) to expand services across Oregon. This free, online clinic focuses on increasing access to expungement for individuals with juvenile records. 

“We know youth of color are disproportionately impacted by juvenile records. Through this partnership we will be able to reach into every Oregon county and assist individuals with these records, improving equity and access across our state,” said Natalie Hollabaugh, Equal Justice Works Fellow Attorney hosted at CJRC and sponsored by Intel and Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP. 

For many individuals, a juvenile record can cause the loss of future employment and educational opportunities, or an inability to obtain housing or to enlist in the military service. In Oregon, when youth have contact with law enforcement or the juvenile court, paper and electronic records are created. Information in these records is publicly available. Expunction, or expungement, is the process of sealing or destroying those records. For individuals seeking a clean slate and a fresh start, access to expunction is vital. “With housing, education and holding jobs on the line, much more is possible for these individuals when they have a clear record. Helping people in this way will make a huge positive impact on our communities and our future.” said Clinic Manager April Brix.

The expunction process in Oregon is complicated and can be difficult. Those seeking assistance from the clinic can begin by applying online through the Youth, Rights & Justice website. After completing the initial application, clinic staff (either from YRJ or CJRC) will assist in getting requests properly submitted to the court. Expunction is not possible for some serious offenses. A waiting period from the last case termination may be required. 

Help us spread the word about this exciting expansion by sharing this post or our Expunction Clinic Flyer.