Present Pillars in Benton Harbor is hosting an Expungement Resource Fair next month to help community members clear past convictions that may be holding them back.
Present Pillars Director James Gunter tells us attendees can learn whether they’re eligible for expungement and connect directly with legal resources. He says having a criminal record can harm a person in a variety of ways.
“It’s very hard to find or establish housing, employment, and plenty of other things when you have a criminal record,” Gunter said. “So after people have completed the requirements set by the courts, they’ve served their time or probation. I think it’s important that we as society make it easier for them to live their lives as a normal, functioning adult.”
Gunter says partners on hand at the event can talk to attendees about their particular circumstances.
“Safe and Just Michigan is our principal partner. We also have Legal Aid of Western Michigan there with volunteer attorneys. We’ll have notaries and fingerprinting by Michigan State Police on site and other services as well.”
The event takes place Saturday, January 10, from noon to 4 p.m. at Benton Harbor High School. It’s a collaboration with Benton Harbor Area Schools, Safe and Just Michigan, and Legal Aid of Western Michigan.
Gunter says Present Pillars has hosted six or seven expungement fairs in the past few years, and its website features testimonial videos from those who have been helped.
Pre-registration for the fair is strongly encouraged, and the event is open to anyone seeking help navigating the expungement process. Gunter reminds all who attend to bring their ID.
