Union County, NJ

12/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/12/2024 08:40

Union County Helps Residents Secure a Fresh Start With Return of Free Expungement Clinic, Dec. 17th

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces the return of a free Expungement Clinic to Union County. The life-changing clinic will take place on Tuesday, December 17th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be held at the Roselle Public Library, located at 104 West 4th Avenue in Roselle. The clinic will be available exclusively to residents of Union County.

"We understand the limitations that minor convictions can place on an individual's trajectory in life, and for that reason, this clinic was established; your past mistakes do not always have to define your future," said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. "At our Expungement clinic, you'll be connected to free legal resources and support services to help you seize your second chance and rebuild your life even better than before."

At the clinic, participants will have the opportunity to consult with attorneys for a free expungement, learn about eligibility requirements, and receive assistance regarding pending fines, along with other related issues. Blaze Responsibly, a consulting firm, will return to provide legal support for individuals working through the often complex expungement process.

"We are proud to partner with Blaze Responsibly once again to bring this transformative opportunity to Union County residents," said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) and the Workforce Development Board. "An expungement is more than just a clean slate-it's a gateway to renewed hope, opportunity, and self-empowerment. By providing free access to expert legal guidance and connecting participants with essential resources, we are giving our residents the tools to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. As we approach the holiday season, this clinic symbolizes the spirit of giving-a chance to rebuild lives, restore dignity, and create brighter futures for all."

Participants can expect to receive a filed expungement at no cost from qualified attorneys. If a participant is found ineligible for expungement, they will at least walk away with a clearer understanding of their legal situation and be informed about the resources available to them.

While the Expungement clinic is free to attend, a two-step registration process is required by filling out the two required forms at ucnj.org/job-fairs. Admission will only be accepted if both forms are submitted.

Union County residents may register at www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/ or contact Carolina Marin at 908-380-6237 for more information. Due to space and resource limitations, the registration is limited to the first 75 participants.

The Expungement Clinic is organized by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Union County American Job Center, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The initiative is in partnership with Blaze Responsibly, Blaze Law Firm, Vet4U, Union Grown UFCW, and the Coalition for Food and Health Equity, which will provide nutritious meals for all attendees at the event.

The Union County American Job Center is supported with funds from the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), totaling $1,700,000. 100% of these services are financed through federal funding sources.