GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The City of Grand Rapids Office of Oversight and Public Accountability (OPA) and its community partners will host the third annual Project Clean Slate Expungement Fair on Saturday, May 4. The event aims to assist individuals in navigating Michigan's Clean Slate expungement process.
Brandon Davis, the director of oversight and public accountability, expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event, which last year successfully helped over 600 people with the expungement process. Davis highlighted the positive impact of the expungement program on individuals' lives, stating, "It’s clear that we are doing life-changing work, and I am proud to do it."
The expungement fair will provide a comprehensive service, handling expungement applications, scheduling hearings, obtaining records, and offering emotional support during the process. Various agencies will be present to provide information on services such as veteran support, voting rights, food assistance, and housing.
Michigan's "Clean Slate" legislation, enacted in 2020, allows for the expungement of eligible criminal records, reflecting the City's commitment to advancing equity in the justice system. The legislation includes provisions for expunging DUI and OWI convictions, misdemeanors related to marijuana possession, and other offenses, benefiting a substantial number of individuals in the state.
Under the Clean Slate law, individuals can petition for expungement of up to three felonies and have no lifetime limit on misdemeanors. The waiting period for misdemeanors has been reduced to three years, and multiple felony applications can be made after seven years. Moreover, the law allows record clearance for individuals with outstanding court fines and fees, with certain exceptions for specific offenses.
The expungement fair represents a vital opportunity for individuals seeking a fresh start by clearing their criminal records and gaining access to various support services. Interested individuals are encouraged to pre-register for the event and take advantage of the resources available to facilitate their journey towards a brighter future.
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