The Power of Expungement for Kentuckians

Criminal records can significantly limit a person’s opportunities for employment, housing and education. However, for many Kentuckians, the chance to clear their record through expungement can be life changing. Over the past several years, Legal Aid of the Bluegrass (LABG) has increased its criminal record expungement work, helping more people secure a second chance and unlocking doors to better opportunities. This growth is driven in part by new laws that have resulted in more people being eligible for expungement, as well as unique partnerships with organizations like Goodwill of Kentucky and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG). 

This work is also made possible through the support of volunteer attorneys and funding from the Legal Services Corporation’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF). What began as an expungement pro bono clinic in Lexington is now expanding to Northern Kentucky and more rural areas across LABG’s service region. In rural communities, where access to attorneys can be limited, volunteer lawyers will connect with clients virtually to provide assistance. For those who qualify, these services are provided at no cost—removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent people from pursuing expungement.

To  better understand the impact of criminal record expungement on Kentucky families, clients who received legal assistance from LABG were surveyed. The results from 77 respondents demonstrate meaningful improvements in confidence, stability, and opportunity.

• 82% feel more confident in their personal and professional lives 
• 44% report improved personal finances 
• 64% say they have more job opportunities 
• 38% secured a job they previously could not apply for 
• 17% have been able to obtain public housing 
• 31% have enrolled in or applied for educational programs

In their own words, here is what LABG clients say about receiving legal assistance for expungement. 

• “The financial help took a huge burden off of me… I live paycheck to paycheck.”
• “I have a job I love… I obtained a second chance.”
• “Everything has been much better… a career that I can retire from.”
• “I have been able to volunteer at my child’s school.”
• “The expungement changed the trajectory of my future… I secured a job with my degree.”
• “The feeling of not being judged by my past… boost of confidence.”

Through this continued effort, LABG aims to help individuals and families build brighter futures. Stay tuned for information about upcoming expungement events and opportunities for assistance.