Grand Rapids to Host Free Expungement Event

News Summary

Grand Rapids will host a free expungement event on May 3, offering residents a chance to clear eligible criminal records. With on-site attorneys and support, individuals can file petitions and access valuable resources. The Urban League covers fingerprinting fees for those in need. This annual event aims to help Michiganders utilize Clean Slate legislation, enhancing opportunities for employment, housing, and education.

Grand Rapids is set to host a free expungement event on Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kroc Center located at 2500 Division Ave. S. This event is open to all Michigan residents seeking to clear eligible criminal convictions from their records and aims to provide valuable resources for those looking to improve their employment, housing, and educational opportunities.

Participants who qualify will have the chance to file their expungement petitions directly at the event. It is important to note that federal and out-of-state convictions are not eligible for expungement through this program.

The event will feature on-site attorneys, offering guidance and support through the expungement process. In addition, attendees will have access to free ICHAT background checks, fingerprinting services, and individual consultations to help navigate their specific situations. While there is a $50 processing fee for fingerprinting required by the Michigan State Police, the Urban League of West Michigan will cover this cost for residents with financial constraints. Furthermore, background checks are sponsored by the Urban League to facilitate the process.

This marks the fourth annual expungement fair organized by the City of Grand Rapids, which seeks to help residents understand and utilize the Clean Slate legislation enacted in 2020. This law allows for the expungement of certain convictions, including first-time DUI offenses and misdemeanors for marijuana possession, with varying details on timing and limitations based on conviction types. Under the new legislation, individuals can expunge up to three felonies in their lifetime, with no limit set on misdemeanors.

Last year’s event proved successful, assisting over 600 individuals in navigating the complexities of the expungement procedure. The city’s managing director of equity and engagement and oversight and public accountability has emphasized the significance of clearing criminal records, as this can open doors to better job prospects, housing opportunities, and educational advancement.

In addition to expungement services, various organizations will participate in the event to support residents in multiple areas of need. These organizations focus on assisting veterans, advocating for voting rights, providing food pantry services, and offering housing assistance. Furthermore, second-chance employers will be available, giving attendees the opportunity to apply for jobs on-site.

Eligibility and Waiting Periods

The eligibility for expungement at this event is determined by a series of criteria. Individuals must meet specific requirements regarding the nature of their convictions and the waiting periods for filing expungements, which may begin once all sentences or probation terms are completed.

Restorative Justice Efforts

This expungement event is part of the ongoing restorative justice efforts by the City of Grand Rapids aimed at promoting equity and justice within the criminal justice system. By providing residents with the means and information to clear their criminal records, the city hopes to foster an environment conducive to community growth and individual rehabilitation.

This event emphasizes the City of Grand Rapids’ commitment to supporting its residents in their pursuit of a fresh start and improved quality of life through the expungement process.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• WOOD TV: Grand Rapids Set to Host Fourth Annual Expungement Fair
• MLive: Michigan Residents Offered Path to Clear Criminal Records
• WZZM 13: Clean Slate Expungement Fair in Grand Rapids
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Expungement
• Google Search: Expungement