California State University, Bakersfield’s Pre-Law Program and a network of volunteers from the local legal community are hosting an opportunity for Kern County residents to clear their criminal records and receive the help they need to move forward with their lives.
A Pre-Expungement Clinic is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on March 19. Participants must be evaluated at the pre-clinic before advancing to the Expungement Clinic on April 24, when attorneys will work with clients to clear their criminal records. The service is offered free of charge, but potential clients must RSVP by emailing PLSI@csub.edu. The clinic has become so popular over the years that demand far exceeds the open slots available.
“Torres|Torres Stallings is proud to be a part of the local Expungement Clinic,” said David A. Torres, managing partner of the law firm, which has participated in the annual clinic since its inception several years ago. “The upcoming clinic is an invaluable opportunity for our community, providing individuals with the chance to clear their criminal records and open doors to better employment, housing, and educational opportunities. By assisting residents in navigating the expungement process, we empower them to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the community. Our clinic not only fosters personal growth but also promotes social reintegration, helping to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.”
The scope of the clinic has grown over the years to include an array of support services, from healthcare groups to social service agencies to training and job opportunities.
“The main focus of the clinic remains the opportunity to expunge the criminal record of eligible participants so that they can have a fresh start,” said Dr. Jeanine E. Kraybill, Pre Law Program director and professor at CSUB. “But through the generosity and engagement of our partners, we have expanded assistance to reflect a holistic approach for our clients, by providing information on possible job opportunities, training and other resources.”
Dr. Kraybill emphasized that the process of gathering the necessary records can be time-consuming and advised potential participants to get started now.
Only charges and cases in Kern County will be evaluated, and no federal or juvenile matters will be considered. Participants must provide proof of valid identification and the case number at the pre-clinic. All fines must be paid in full by the time of the expungement clinic in April.
To retrieve case numbers before the pre-expungement clinic, visit Kern County Superior Court Law Library or the Kern County Superior Court criminal case counter at 1415 Truxtun Ave. Participants may also visit the Kern County Sheriff’s Office for case information, but organizers caution that any outstanding warrants may result in arrest or detainment.
Both clinics are sponsored by H.A. Sala Attorney at Law; Torres |Torres Stallings: A Law Corporation; Law Office of Fatima Rodriguez; Kern County Law Library; Kern Health Systems; Kern County Probation Department; Superior Court of Kern County; Kern County District Attorney; Kern County Bar Association; Psychiatric Wellness Center; Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; California Resources Corp; and the CSUB Legal Information & Support Clinic.
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