By Kamara Douglas
Herald Contributor
Cincinnati City Councilmember Chris Seelbach along with DJ J.Dough will host an expungement clinic in partnership with Ohio Justice and Policy Center, New Prospect Baptist Church and the Black Lawyers Association of Cincinnati in Roselawn on Thursday, December 5 from 3 to 6 p.m.
The event will provide people with old criminal records in Ohio, who are interested in expunging their records, the opportunity to meet with attorneys, paralegals and volunteers who are trained to help them navigate the legal process.
Rather than allowing old records to hold people back from getting a job, finding housing, or from pursuing an education, expungement can allow eligible citizens to move forward with a clean slate.
“Rehabilitation means someone is ready to become a contributing member of society again, and often minor, old offenses on their record can drag someone down and shut out opportunities,” Seelbach said.
“I’ve seen a lot of my family and friends come home after paying their debt to society, and, because of their records, finding a job and providing for their families is a difficult challenge.” said DJ J.Dough. “I wanted to help provide a way for them to have hope for the future and start a new life and not have door’s closed on them because of their past.”
A person is eligible to pre-register for the Expungement Clinic if they have a criminal record in Ohio and no open cases (not currently on parole, probation, or other community corrections). Services available to eligible registrants include record sealing, expungement, and Certificates of Qualification for Employment.
To pre-register, text the word “Justice” to (833) 520-0714.
Additionally, local non-profits and organizations will be participating to boost and support opportunity for those receiving expungements.
Walk-ins are welcome based on time/availability