# Criminal Record Help Resources - Minnesota
## National Resources
- **National Expungement Works (NEW):**
- **Website:** [National Expungement Works](https://www.nationalexpungementworks.org/)
- **Description:** Offers free legal aid events, workshops, and resources to assist with expungement processes across the U.S.
- **Legal Aid Hotline:**
- **Phone:** 888-529-8651
- **Website:** [LawHelp.org](https://www.lawhelp.org/)
- **Description:** Connects individuals to local legal aid services.
## Statewide Criminal Record Help Services
- **Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) - Expungement Resources**
- **Website:** [Minnesota DPS Expungement Info](https://dps.mn.gov/)
- **Services Provided:** Information on expungements, including automatic record sealing for cannabis-related offenses under the Clean Slate Act (effective 2025).
- **Key Notes:** For detailed information about the Clean Slate Act or Cannabis Expungement Board, visit the [Minnesota DPS Expungement Page](https://dps.mn.gov/).
- **Legal Services State Support**
- **Website:** [LawHelpMN](https://www.lawhelpmn.org/)
- **Services Provided:** Guides for navigating the expungement process and connecting with local attorneys.
## Regional Criminal Record Help Services
### Minneapolis-St. Paul Region
- **Volunteer Lawyers Network (VLN):**
- **Phone:** 612-752-6677
- **Website:** [VLN Website](https://www.vlnmn.org/)
- **Services Provided:** Free legal clinics and direct support for expungement processes.
- **Neighborhood Justice Center:**
- **Phone:** 651-222-4703
- **Website:** [NJC Website](https://www.njcinc.org/)
- **Services Provided:** Criminal defense and expungement services, focused on equitable outcomes for marginalized communities.
### Northern Minnesota
- **Legal Aid Service of Northeast Minnesota:**
- **Phone:** 218-723-4005
- **Website:** [Legal Aid NE MN](https://www.lasnem.org/)
- **Specialized Services:** Legal support for expungement and reentry assistance.
## How to Start the Process
1. **Eligibility Check:** Review your eligibility for expungement under Minnesota's Clean Slate Act or other laws. Use tools like [LawHelpMN](https://www.lawhelpmn.org/).
2. **Required Documents:** Court records, ID, and any related documentation. Check with local courts for additional requirements.
3. **Where to File:** Filings can be submitted to the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Visit the [Self-Help Center](https://www.mncourts.gov/) for guidance.
## Online Legal Aid & Support
- **Minnesota Judicial Branch Self-Help Center:**
- **Website:** [MN Courts Self-Help](https://www.mncourts.gov/)
- **Features:** Online tutorials, guides for expungement forms, and live chat support.
## Additional Resources
- **Second Chance Coalition:**
- **Website:** [Second Chance MN](https://www.mnsecondchance.org/)
- **Description:** Advocacy and support services for individuals seeking a fresh start, including workshops and community resources.
For the most up-to-date information, check the resources above or consult a legal expert specializing in Minnesota criminal record expungement laws.
*Updated as of [Insert date]. For updates or corrections, please contact [Insert contact method or organization].*