While many New Yorkers with past criminal convictions have worked to create positive changes in their lives and their communities, criminal histories carry powerful stigmas and continue to hold people back from further progress and success. As of October 2017, eligible individuals can petition the New York State courts to seal decades-old criminal convictions and finally move beyond their criminal histories. The Sealing Criminal Convictions partnership with the Community Service Society of New York pairs pre-screened, eligible clients with volunteer attorneys to prepare and submit sealing motions to the court. This project has incredible implications for improving participants’ housing options, employment prospects, and sense of self-worth.

Pro Bono Firms and Legal Departments: Proskauer Rose LLP; Mayer Brown