Free virtual workshop offered to clear criminal records

CARBONDALE - Land of Lincoln Legal Aid will offer an online presentation for community members to learn about the legal process of removing items from their Illinois criminal records on Tuesday, Oct. 27, at 5:30 p.m.

The event will be hosted live on the internet through the Carbondale Public Library's Facebook page, YouTube channel, and Zoom webinar. The virtual event is free and open to all, but preregistration is required on the Carbondale Public Library's website to join the event through Zoom.

The expungement and sealing program is intended to help remove barriers for individuals who are no longer connected with the justice system. By expunging or sealing criminal records, most interactions with law enforcement, ranging from arrests to convictions, can be removed from public view, giving ex-offenders a chance at better jobs and housing.

During this upcoming event, Attorney Andrew Weaver of Land of Lincoln Legal Aid will describe the process for expungement and sealing of criminal records in Illinois courts, including ways that cannabis legalization has impacted the process. There will be an opportunity for attendees to ask general questions and to apply directly to Land of Lincoln for free individual advice and help with the process.

Weaver said, "Land of Lincoln Legal Aid wants to help people get a fresh start and put their past behind them so they have a shot at better employment or safer housing. I hope attendees at this event will get the information they need to decide whether they should apply for expungement and sealing, and then will take the step to contact us for assistance with the process."

For more information, please call Land of Lincoln Legal Aid at (618) 457-7800.