In collaboration with The Access Project (TAP), College of the Canyons Rising Scholars program intends to provide free post-conviction legal services to current and former students, as well as COC employees and their family members.

“Expunging convictions and felony reductions can increase a person’s opportunities when it comes to housing and employment,” said Dianne Avery, dean of academic innovation and continuing education at College of the Canyons. “This free service is a great resource for those looking to make a fresh new start.”

The kickoff meeting is expected to be held in Canyons Hall, Room 201 at the college’s Valencia campus 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Sept. 27.

Attendees are able to receive a copy of their record (“rap sheet”) from the Department of Justice and have it reviewed by a TAP lawyer-volunteer to determine if their California convictions can be expunged, reduced from felonies, or sealed, according to College of the Canyons officials.

If eligible, applicants are to receive assistance with paperwork, writing personal statements to support petitions, as well as court filings,according to College of the Canyons officials.

To begin the process, applicants must register at the AccessProjectCA website.

The Rising Scholars program at COC serves students who have been impacted by the criminal justice system and helps formerly incarcerated students achieve their academic goals.

This free service is made possible through a partnership between the State Chancellor’s Rising Scholars Network, The Access Project, and California Community Colleges across the state.

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