Re-Entry Justice Story: A Clean Start

On a Saturday morning, Chloe M. went into her job, hoping to continue working her way up in the company. Instead she was told that a background check had come in which made her unqualified for promotion to management and, in fact, she was going to be terminated.

As a single mom of three children, this news made her feel the world was ending.

“I did something stupid 14 years ago,” said Chloe. “I couldn’t believe after all this time I was being fired.”

She tried to find a lawyer to help get a criminal record expungement. The fees quoted were so expensive. She felt ready to give up.

Chloe’s pastor encouraged her and told her about the Clinic’s Expungement Help Desk. When she found out the help desk has walk-in hours, she went in the next day. Her children were having an e-learning day and so she brought them with her. 

“I explained my situation. They were very kind to me and my children,” said Chloe. “Then I found out the services are free of charge. That made me almost cry right there.”

All of the paperwork for Chloe’s expungement was completed within one week and she was able to file it with the court, to successfully clear her past record.

“We learn all about compassion, love and forgiveness through Jesus. We have that example of his forgiveness,” said Chloe. “I just thank God because you guys [the Clinic] are giving me an opportunity. I’m really thankful and glad I didn’t give up.”

Because of what she has received, Chloe wants to give back and has offered to volunteer her time to help others when the Clinic needs help.

We can’t keep helping people like Chloe without your support! Any donation, large or small, helps keep our doors open for people who are like Chloe and just want a fresh start.

Help more neighbors now by donating toward our #Spring4Justice fundraiser at https://justice.nclegalclinic.org/spring4justice23. You can also raise awareness by sharing our social media posts about our mission and services. Thank you!