The Expungement Clinic helps low-income Akron residents seal the record of their criminal convictions. A sealed record enables many people better access to jobs, housing, and volunteer opportunities. Students will learn integral skills in the legal field including filing paperwork with the court, drafting motions, interviewing real clients, and communicating with clients both through the mail and over the phone. Students who are eligible for a legal intern certificate will have ample opportunities to appear in court and present an oral argument.
A student commitment to the Expungement Clinic can be for as few or as many hours as the student pleases. The only requirement is that you devote enough time to attempt to contact your clients at least twice a week. All hours qualify as Pro Bono Limited Means.
There are now two different volunteer opportunities to accommodate night and non-traditional students. After attending a training, students can volunteer at our Saturday events without maintaining a regular presence from 8-5.
There will be three training sessions next week. Students only need to attend one meeting These sessions are informational only, and students are welcome to attend simply for a brief overview of the law surrounding sealing of a conviction. The trainings will be Monday the 19th at 5:00 PM, Tuesday the 20th at 1:30 PM, and Wednesday the 21st at 11:30 AM. Sessions will be in the Legal Clinic Conference Room and will be expected to last 45 – 60 minutes.
Students with any questions please contact Russel Nichols at russel.nichols@gmail.com.