Transforming Lives in Englewood: The Journey of Our Legal Clinic
Our legal clinic in Englewood has become a beacon of hope, offering second chances to those burdened by criminal records. Over the years, we’ve witnessed how our work in sealing and expungement has profoundly transformed lives, helping residents clear their past records and regain access to crucial opportunities in employment, housing, and education. By offering free legal services, we are also contributing to lowering recidivism rates and fostering a more hopeful, prosperous community.
Recognizing the Urgent Need for Criminal Record Relief
The journey to establish legal services in Englewood started with a deep understanding of the urgent need for criminal record relief. From the outset, it was clear how widespread this demand was—over 500 individuals registered for our “Rap Sheet Days.” During these events, we cover the costs for participants to obtain their criminal records from both the Chicago Police Department and the Illinois State Police, initiating the first critical step in clearing their backgrounds. In a community where trust in the legal system can be fragile, Teamwork Englewood leverages two decades of community-building to assure residents that they have an advocate in us, fighting for their rights and their future.
Life After a Criminal Past
For individuals with a criminal background, trying to rebuild life can seem like an uphill battle. A conviction from the past can create barriers that extend far beyond legalities—it impacts employment opportunities, access to housing, educational pursuits, and even personal relationships. Many of the people we serve have faced years of rejection, not because of who they’ve become but because of mistakes made long ago. The stigma attached to a criminal record can lead to hopelessness and isolation, making it feel as though the chances of moving forward are slipping away.
In Illinois, the processes for expungement and sealing are complex and out of reach for many. The system involves long waiting periods, an overwhelming legal process, and financial hurdles. For many individuals in Englewood, accessing legal aid and navigating this path can seem impossible, and the hope of clearing their name feels like a fading dream.
Our Commitment: Comprehensive Legal Support
At Teamwork Englewood, we are dedicated to changing this reality. Our legal clinic provides comprehensive support throughout the entire expungement and sealing process. We draft petitions, represent clients in court, and fight for their right to a clean slate. Our commitment to ensuring that no one is turned away due to financial hardship means that we also assist with fee waivers whenever necessary.
We don’t just stop at legal representation. Through our “Know Your Rights” events, we educate the community about criminal record relief. We guide individuals through the legal system and show them ways to bypass the mandatory waiting periods by highlighting personal achievements like earning a vocational certificate or educational degree during their sentence.
Real Stories, Real Change
The true impact of our work is felt in the stories of the people we help. One recent client, who carried the burden of their record for 20 years, shared how it had affected their life, limiting job options, educational opportunities, and even their peace of mind. After working with our clinic, this client expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Thanks to you and your team, I now have peace and can apply for jobs that were once closed to me because of these arrests.”
This story is just one example of many. Each success fuels our commitment to the work we do in Englewood. Our efforts are about more than clearing records—they are about restoring dignity, providing hope, and giving individuals the opportunity to rewrite their future.
Moving Forward, One Step at a Time
As we continue our mission, our goal remains clear: to empower and uplift the Englewood community, transforming lives one at a time. The challenges along the way are significant, but the rewards are invaluable. We are honored to be part of this journey, helping residents not only clear their records but also reclaim their lives and their futures.
We will continue to stand by our clients, providing the legal assistance they need to break free from the shadows of their past and build a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow for themselves and their families.
