Official Site of The State of New Jersey

SOMERSET – The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD), First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens (FBCLG), Assemblyman Joe Danielsen of New Jersey Legislative District 17, and Somerset County are proud to announce they are once again partnering to host a transformative expungement clinic titled, “Clean Slate 2.0.” Due to the overwhelming success and positive feedback from last year's event, the organizations are excited to bring this vital service back alongside new partners Legal Services of Northwest Jersey and Community In Crisis. This community-focused event will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 10 am to 3 pm at FBCLG, 771 Somerset Street, Somerset, NJ.

At the clinic, attendees will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with experienced NJOPD attorneys and legal professionals, who will provide guidance at no cost. The staff will assist with determining expungement eligibility, help complete necessary paperwork, and share information on additional legal resources and support available in the Somerset area and beyond. There will also be an attorney present to discuss the possibility of an executive pardon for individuals who are not eligible for an expungement.

“The NJOPD is honored to once again partner with local organizations to offer critical expungement and pardon application services to those seeking to clear their criminal records,” said Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti. “Expungements and pardons work are powerful tools that help deserving individuals remove barriers to employment, housing, and education, and allow them to reclaim their futures. After the overwhelming success of last year’s clinic, we remain deeply committed to providing resources and legal guidance that empower people to rebuild their lives and contribute fully to their communities.”

“Everyone deserves a second chance, and today is the first day of the rest of your life, so make it count,” said Assemblyman Joe Danielsen.

“We are excited to support Clean Slate 2.0,” said Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson. “Expungement clinics can be a powerful tool for residents who need access to employment so they can build a brighter future for their families.”

The Clean Slate clinic is open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP to ensure adequate accommodations. Those who plan to attend and speak with an attorney about a possible expungement should bring any information they have about the case they are hoping to address. However, if that information is not available, it can be retrieved electronically at the clinic.