The Power of Second Chances.

We are expanding criminal record shielding relief to as many justice-involved Idahoans as possible.

A new Clean Slate Law went into effect on January 1, 2024. Under the new law, eligible adults can shield one criminal record from public view if:

(1)   The conviction was for a nonviolent misdemeanor or felony possession;

(2)   They completed all terms of the sentence, including jail time, probation or parole, and paid all fines, fees, and restitution ordered; and

(3)   A minimum of 5 years have passed since the completion of the sentence with no new convictions.  

This has the power to change lives. If you believe you are eligible for record shielding relief, please look for one of the upcoming Second Chance Clinics on social. You can also reach out directly through the Contact Us page if you need more immediate assistance.

More than 1 in 3 adults in Idaho have a criminal record. At the same time, the Clean Slate Initiative reports that 94% of employers, 90% of landlords, and 72% of colleges and universities in America use background checks to screen out applicants with records. This occurs even though most criminal records are for non-violent misdemeanor offenses. For many people, a criminal record can hold them back for years, impacting their ability to earn a living, support their children and families, and reach their full potential. The National Inventory of Collateral Consequences of Conviction estimates that there are 561 collateral consequences to a conviction in Idaho. This means that, even for people convicted of nonviolent misdemeanors or substance-use-related crimes, and even after a person has completed their sentence and paid their debt to society, a conviction can continue to hold them back for their entire life.

We believe in the power of second chances. One mistake should not control a person’s destiny, especially for nonviolent misdemeanor and drug convictions. This is why Idaho Justice Project launched the Second Chances Committee—a statewide committee of nonprofits, attorneys, and justice system stakeholders committed to obtaining record shielding relief under Idaho’s new Clean Slate Law for as many eligible Idahoans as possible. The Second Chances Committee, in partnership with community partners, is planning a series of Second Chances Clinics. At the clinics, individuals can check whether they are eligible for record shielding relief. If eligible, the individual will be matched with a pro bono attorney who will file the petition and represent them through the petition hearing and court process. For information on upcoming Second Chance Clinics, check out our Facebook page where we will provide updates and announcements.

More information about the Clean Slate Law is available from the Idaho Supreme Court.

Together, we are working towards a system that allows people with a criminal record to realize their full potential, find safe housing, pursue their education, and find meaningful work to the benefit of themselves, their families, and the entire community.