Record Clearance Project
A total of 8 million California residents have criminal convictions on their record, hindering their ability to find work or housing. Through the Record Clearance Project, San Jose State University students aid in clearing felony and misdemeanors records. Former Record Clearance Project clients work with people in custody and guide them as they are released, with the goal of preparing clients for the expungement proess. Students support project staff by participating in client interviews, providing research and locating resources.
Students taking Peggy Stevenson’s JS 141 and 142 courses are trained and supervised by an attorney in court representation. Students interview clients and draft legal paperwork for those seeking to dismiss their criminal convictions. The RCP files the
petitions in court, prepares the clients at “moot court” practice sessions when needed, schedules the court hearings at which RCP clients appear, and represents the clients in court. At Speed Screening interviews, students provide information regarding legal eligibility for expungement and next steps in the expungement process. At community education presentations, RCP students explain expungement law to community groups and to people in jail. Sessions are followed by brief individual consultations. This Spring, RCP prepared and filed 87 cases for 27 clients seeking to dismiss convictions and to reduce felonies to misdemeanors. Three judges granted all 87 cases and reduced all 10 felonies to misdemeanors.
Project Impacts
80% of the respondents learned about the necessity of dismissing jail convictions
Provided 16 LiveScan events where 136 community members, 103 (76%) of whom were indigent, received their criminal history reports, saving residents $5,295
This Spring, the court forgave over $14,800 in fees and fines
Students Engaged
Residents Engaged
Hours of Student Service
Value
Faculty Lead
Peggy Stevenson (Justice Studies)