A guide to record relief in state courts
Record relief is a critical tool for reducing the collateral consequences of criminal records and supporting successful reentry. This guide examines the challenges of accessing expungement and sealing, highlights policy solutions, and provides recommendations for courts seeking to improve record relief processes.
Who should read this?
- Court administrators & policy makers: Learn strategies for making record relief more accessible
- Judges & legal professionals: Understand the legal and procedural barriers to record relief
- Justice reform advocates: Explore solutions for reducing collateral consequences and improving equity in the justice system
Why this report matters
20 to 30 million people in the U.S. are eligible for record relief, yet only 10-20% apply, and even fewer receive it. This guide outlines practical steps courts can take to streamline record relief and expand access to justice.
Estimated report reading time: 45 minutes or longer
Challenges & solutions in record relief
Awareness of eligibility
Many individuals eligible for expungement are unaware of their rights and options. Courts must improve outreach and public education efforts.
Financial barriers
85% of legal aid attorneys report that fines and fees prevent many from accessing record relief. Fee waivers and financial assistance programs can help.
Automatic record clearing
Expanding automatic expungement has already cleared over 33 million records in Pennsylvania alone and can significantly improve the justice system.
The impact of record relief
people in the U.S. are eligible for record relief, yet fewer than 10% successfully obtain it.
of legal aid attorneys report that fines and fees are a significant barrier to expungement.
of Americans support automatic expungement for eligible records to improve access to jobs and housing.
Understanding record relief
Adopting record relief in courts
Our interactive map showcases state record relief activities, including research, legislation, initiatives, toolkits, or evidence of barriers.
Expand your record relief activities
We provide expert consulting services to help courts develop policies and processes that expand access to record relief. Contact us to explore tailored solutions for your jurisdiction.
