L.A. County libraries host expungement clinics to clear criminal records

The Los Angeles County Library will host Wednesday the first of three summer expungement clinics to help residents clear their criminal records.

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The library, in partnership with the L.A. County Public Defender's Office, will assist eligible participants with clearing their records of past arrests and convictions. The clinics will provide assistance in both English and Spanish at the following locations:

-- Lancaster Library, 601 W. Lancaster Blvd., from 2 to 6 p.m.;

-- West Hollywood Library, 625 N. San Vicente Blvd., on July 24 from 3 to 7 p.m.; and

-- Carson Library, 151 E Carson St., on Aug. 6 from 3 to 7 p.m.

The county has additional information about its expungement clinics at lacountylibrary.org/clean-your-record .

"Our partnership with the Public Defender's Office has been incredibly successful, and we are thrilled to extend our clinic locations this summer," Skye Patrick, L.A. County Library CEO, said in a statement. "The success of our previous clinics demonstrates the profound impact we can have, and we look forward to supporting even more individuals in clearing their records and transforming their lives."

The county has held previous clinics at its East Los Angeles Library, Huntington Park Library, San Fernando Library, Live Oak Library and A C Bilbrew Library. About 41 people have been able to clear their records through this service, library officials said.

Expungement offers a legal means to erase or conceal juvenile court records, although certain federal agencies and law enforcement may still have access under specific conditions.

For adults, it allows for the dismissal of charges once all probation terms are fulfilled, or in exceptional cases, when it serves the interests of justice, officials said. By eliminating the obstacles associated with a criminal record, expungement can unlock new opportunities in careers, education, housing and other aspects of life, according to the Public Defender's Office.

Participants must not be in violation of any law, on parole, or on probation, officials said. Attendees are encouraged to bring relevant case documents, such as court records and minute orders, to facilitate the expungement process.

"Extending our expungement clinics in local libraries is crucial as we strive to broaden our impact across L.A. County," county Public Defender Ricardo Garcia said in a statement.

"With over 40 individuals already empowered to rebuild their lives, each clinic represents a transformative opportunity. By reaching more communities and offering critical legal services, we are not just erasing records but opening doors to stability and opportunity for those who need it most," Garcia added.

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