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Pardons Project
Name of Non-Profit Agency::
Statewide Legal Services*
Contact::
Claudia Magnan
Pro Bono Clinic Coordinator
cmagnan@slsct.org
860-852-1252
Why is this assistance important to these clients?:
Clients would be able to find employment without the criminal records holding them back. They also would be able to get in to public housing.
Who are the clients?:
People with a criminal record who want to have it erased.
What legal problem do these clients face?:
Clients have problems finding jobs or public housing because of their criminal records.
What legal strategies do the pro bono lawyers use to assist the clients?:
Paralegals volunteer for two projects.<br>1. Outreach - go to Department of Labor to give information about the Pardon Project and hand out materials.<br>2. Paralegal volunteers come to Statewide Legal Services and prepare the pardon application for clients using information that clients have provided.
What are the outcome goals of this assistance?:
We hope that people with old convictions will be granted a pardon and have their records erased.
What time commitment is required to do this pro bono work?:
Usually a 3 hour commitment every time they volunteer.
Where is the pro bono work done? (at a legal aid office at the pro bono attorneys office etc.)?:
Either at a Department of Labor facility or Statewide Legal Services office.
Give a short (1-paragraph) case example::
John has just been laid off from a job that he held for 4 years. He has had a hard time finding a job because of an old criminal record. He gets lots of interviews but they all fall apart when potential employers do the criminal records check. He never hears from them. <br><br>If John can get his record erased, he will be able to get a job. He will also be able to volunteer for his son's Little League team.
Does this pro bono work require full admission to practice in Connecticut?:
No
If no: How are those without full admission supervised to ensure avoidance of issues regarding unlicensed practice?:
All pardon applications are reviewed by an attorney before they are sent out.
What training is provided to pro bono lawyers doing this work?:
Paralegals are trained by SLS staff.
Who provides the training?:
Statewide Legal Services
At what time of day is the pro bono work done (evening clinic etc.)?:
Daytime.
Does this pro bono work require full admission to practice in Connecticut?:
No.
Category:
This organization is a member of the Connecticut Pro Bono Network.