Record Clearance Project

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to promote justice by providing needed services to those who cannot afford them and by educating undergraduates to deliver those services with dignity and respect. To do this, the RCP’s legal services program informs people regarding their legal rights to a clear record and provides the legal assistance necessary for them to achieve the second chance that the law promises. The RCP's Path to Expungement program provides guidance as people leave custody to move forward with their lives. As undergraduates make a difference in the lives of others, they gain the experience and motivation to promote social justice, recognizing that with knowledge and kindness, they can change the world.

Changing lives, one petition at a time.

The RCP is the only program in the country that engages undergraduate students in learning and using legal skills to clear people’s criminal records.

Please help support this life-changing program.

Why RCP Matters

Long after serving their time, RCP clients carry the consequences of past mistakes that limit jobs, housing, immigration, and more opportunities. Since many low-income people cannot afford to hire a lawyer, the RCP strives to make information and representation regarding legal rights available. As people are released from custody, RCP assists with guidance and support from system-impacted peer mentors, with student interns' support.

The Record Clearance Project -- Spring 2025

Record Clearance Project students come from a range of majors and backgrounds; a majority are the first in their families to go to college. They are motivated to use their education to assist others. Following graduation, they bring the understanding and experience they gain through their work with the RCP to careers in law, social services, government, law enforcement, tech, higher education and beyond.

Impact of Expungement

A Stanford analysis of RCP clients showed that clients received an annual increase of $6,190 in income post-expungement and an estimated gain for the government of $34,308 across three years. Thus not only does record clearance significantly improve the lives of individuals and their families, but it enhances the overall well-being of our communities as well.

Adriana Vazquez-Chavez, a student assistant with the Record Clearance Project, holds hands before embracing Carmen Navarro, whose son was cleared of past convictions, at Family Justice Center in San Jose.

Photo Credit: Shae Hammond/Bay Area News Group

Record Clearance Project WishBook

The Record Clearance Project is thrilled to be featured in the Bay Area News Group's WishBook for 2024! The story features current and former students and clients as they engage in this life-changing work.