One of the worst things about criminalization is that for those of us who are trying to do right, a record can keep us from building pro-social relationships, finding employment, or even housing. Formerly incarcerated people experience homelessness at ten times the rate of others. The unemployment rate for the formerly incarcerated is higher than the US unemployment rate during the Great Depression. So a life-long legal financial debt can inspire hopelessness.

I had begun my sentence with a $1,500 debt that had somehow become five figures by the time I was released. Even though I was making monthly payments, the debt was actually growing instead of decreasing, due to compound interest. I thought that I would be in legal debt for the rest of my life.

When I learned about Living with Conviction, I knew I had a chance to get the interest removed from my legal financial debt. I worked with Mike, who helped me prepare and file a petition. I talked to the County Clerk, who told me the court usually grants these types of petitions now without even holding a hearing, due to changes in the law. It wasn't long before the Clerk notified me that my petition was granted! Not only was the interest waived, but the nearly 20-year-old debt, now over five figures, was waived! I didn't think I would ever be out of legal debt, but today I am. I actually have a chance to move on with my life. I think I might even be able to finish my undergraduate degree! ~JS