Attorney General Charity Clark and Franklin County State’s Attorney Bram Kranichfeld are set to hold a free expungement clinic on December 12, 2024. The event will take place in St. Albans, with appointments available from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The clinic will provide services to expunge or seal specific convictions and dismissed charges from criminal records, as permitted under Vermont law. This includes most misdemeanors, fourteen different felony offenses, and all dismissed charges.
Attorney General Clark emphasized the importance of clearing old criminal records for Vermonters seeking stable housing and better job opportunities. She stated, “My office is committed to assisting with clearing old criminal records that are holding Vermonters back.” Clark also acknowledged the collaboration with partners such as Code for BTV, Samaritan House, and the Franklin Grand Isle Restorative Justice Center.
Harmony Bourgeois, Executive Director of Franklin Grand Isle Restorative Justice Center, noted the impact of expungements on individuals’ futures. She said, “An expungement isn’t just about erasing a criminal record; it’s about offering individuals the opportunity to redefine their future.”
Robert Giles from Samaritan House expressed gratitude for the initiative: “Thank you for the wonderful opportunity presented by the Attorney General’s office...which will help remove barriers to employment.”
Free assistance will be provided by attorneys from the Attorney General’s Office for petitions related to Vermont-specific qualifying convictions and dismissed charges. Interested individuals must schedule an appointment in advance by contacting the Attorney General's Office before November 22, 2024.
Appointments will be held at Samaritan House in St. Albans on the day of the clinic. Further information on expungements can be found on Vermont Legal Aid’s website.