By Emily Marshall, Case Manager
On Wednesday, June 3, Shore Legal Access co-hosted an expungement clinic along with Wicomico Partnerships for Families and Children, aimed at increasing access to justice and helping community members better understand their options for clearing eligible criminal records. The clinic was supported by two volunteer attorneys and two Shore Legal Access staff attorneys, who met with clients to review records, discuss eligibility, and explain next steps. Clients received individualized legal consultations and were able to ask questions in a supportive environment.
In addition to legal services, Shore Legal Access hired a professional photographer to provide complimentary professional headshots for clients. Clients can then use these professional photos to add to their LinkedIn profiles and resumes. This opportunity was well-received and had a meaningful impact on attendees.
Several clients shared that having a professional headshot taken made them feel empowered, valued, and confident. One recurring sentiment was that they felt “like someone important” because they had never had a professional photograph taken of themselves before. The headshots served as both a practical resource for employment and professional opportunities and a reminder of each client’s worth and potential.
The clinic also helped remove barriers to legal assistance by providing free legal consultations and information about expungement eligibility. Clients left with a better understanding of their legal options and the steps necessary to move forward. Those with eligible records will be able to work with one of SLA’s attorneys to prepare and file expungement petitions, and the expungement process takes about 90 days once the petition is filed.
The combination of legal services and professional development resources created a holistic experience that supported both clients’ legal needs and personal growth. The positive feedback received from the clinic demonstrates the value of providing services that not only address legal barriers ,but also help restore confidence and open doors to future opportunities.
Local partners including Recovery Resource Center as well as Homes4Hope tabled the event and offered support for re-entry services and mental health counseling services. Thank you to everyone who came out for this clinic and participated!