Yolo County is assisting residents in overcoming barriers to economic stability and successful reintegration into society by hosting a free Expungement Clinic on Thursday, March 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., according to an announcement from the county.

The clinic, put on by the Yolo County Public Defender’s Office with support from the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, will be held at the Yolo County Administration Building Atrium Training Room (B02), located at 625 Court St. in Woodland.

“Expungement isn’t just about erasing a criminal record; it’s about granting individuals the opportunity to redefine their future beyond the shadow of their past mistakes,” stated Amberlene Hernandez, Senior Paralegal with the Yolo County Public Defender’s Office. “Through expungement and other forms of record mitigation, the Yolo County Public Defender’s Office is committed to restoring dignity and removing barriers to economic stability, while helping our clients navigate their full reintegration into the community.”

The event will offer free informational resources for individuals with criminal convictions who are seeking guidance on expunging or reducing their records, as well as exploring opportunities for improving their lives. A criminal history can significantly hinder economic stability, and this event aims to educate residents of Yolo and Sacramento counties on the steps they can take to overcome these barriers.

Organizers will provide information applicable to individuals with various types of convictions, from recent offenses to those dating back several decades. Yolo County encourages all eligible individuals to attend and learn about the pathways available for a fresh start and improved economic stability.

The clinic will provide valuable informational resources to help individuals with criminal convictions understand their options for improving their lives and opportunities. Attendees can learn about the process of petitioning for expungement, as well as record reduction, early termination of probation, obtaining a Certificate of Rehabilitation, sealing eligible arrest records and 290 registry removal for eligible individuals.

Other services offered include access to Communicare, a comprehensive mental health and substance abuse program, and Prison 2 Employment Assistance, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals find work. Employment services and housing assistance will also be provided to support individuals in rebuilding their lives.

An attorney that specializes in the effect of criminal records on immigration status will be on-site to provide general guidance and answer questions. Referrals to immigration consultants will also be available for those seeking additional information.

This event is made possible through the collaboration of The Yolo County Children’s Alliance, the Yolo County Cultural Competence Committee, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Yolo County Public Defender’s Office, The Sacramento County Public Defender’s Office, the Umoja Community, Legal Services of Northern California and Yoloworks.

For more information about the Expungement Clinic and the expungement process, please visit the Yolo County Record Mitigation and Community Reintegration Clinic webpage at www.YoloCounty.gov/Expungement.