Pro Bono Spotlight

• Jurisdiction: Kansas,United States
• Citation: Vol. 92 No. 4 Pg. 26
• Publication year: 2023
• Pages: 26
• topic: Criminal Law

Pro Bono Spotlight 92 J. Kan. Bar Assn 4, 26 (2023) Kansas Bar Journal August, 2023

July, 2023

Clearing Paths to Justice:

Empowering Low-Income Kansans Through Expungement

By Alexandro Vasquez, Liam Bigbee, Oliver Gilmore, and Mathew Kruse, Kansas Legal Services

Working as legal interns at the Geary County Expungement Clinic hosted by Kansas Legal Services was an eye-opening and rewarding experience. The clinic aimed to assist low-income Kansans in expunging their criminal records, providing them with a fresh start and increased opportunities. Spearheaded by Kansas Legal Services Pro Bono Director Joy Springfield and dedicated attorneys from Kansas Legal Services and supported by local attorneys who generously volunteered their services pro bono, the clinic utilized a revolutionary application co-led by Kansas attorney Scott Stockwell. This article delves into our collective experience and highlights the impact of the expungement clinic on the lives of individuals seeking to rebuild their futures.

A criminal record can act as a significant barrier for individuals seeking employment, housing, or educational opportunities. Unfortunately, many low-income Kansans find themselves caught in a cycle where their past mistakes hamper their ability to move forward. Expungement offers a lifeline by allowing eligible individuals to clear their records, enabling them to...