Public Defender’s “Clean Slate” program outlines free expungement help, community drop‑in schedule

The San Francisco Public Defender’s Office presented its Clean Slate program during public comment at the Board of Supervisors meeting on Aug. 12, describing services to help eligible residents seal, expunge or reduce certain criminal records and obtain certificates of rehabilitation.

The program provides drop‑in opportunities and community locations: weekly drop‑in times at the Public Defender’s office on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; weekly sessions at the Southeast Community Center (1800 Oakdale) on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon; a presence at Dale Village Community Center (timed at 2–4 p.m. in the transcript) and monthly sessions at Sunnydale Village Community Center on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. An attorney associated with the program described a simple application process and encouraged anyone with a criminal record to contact the office for screening.

Why it matters: Record‑clearing can materially affect employment, licensing, housing and access to benefits. The program provides multiple, recurring access points intended to make review and representation more accessible to San Franciscans with eligible records.

How to access: The Public Defender’s Office accepts in‑person applications during drop‑in hours and can mail applications on request; prospective participants are advised to contact the Public Defender’s Office for current times and locations and to confirm eligibility.