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Rising Scholars Declarations

Step 2: Writing Your Declaration
& Gathering Letters of Support

If you received an email notice from The Access Project that you need to submit a “declaration” for your clean slate petitions, read on! This page will explain what you need to do and give you options for getting help.

If you did not hear from us that you need a declaration, you can skip this step.

Preparing your Declaration for Court

Some clean slate remedies are “mandatory,” meaning that the law says you are automatically entitled to what you are asking for.  Most cases are “discretionary,” meaning that the judge needs to look at evidence to decide whether to grant your request.

So, legally, a declaration is the evidence that the judge uses to decide whether to grant a petition for expungement.  But really, it’s just a way for you to tell your story to the judge, showing the person you are beyond what your RAP sheet says.

You can get started on your declaration by answering the questions in this form

Sample Declarations

Below are several samples of actual statements from successful Rising Scholars. Reading through these will help you see what you might want to include in your statement. Then move on to the questionnaire to get started on your own!  You must complete the questionnaire by November 15.

Click the buttons below to view the sample declarations, with supporting documents included.

Sample Letters of Support

Below are several samples of letters from a variety of people who might support your petition.  Please consider that everyone's situation is different, and your supporters should write about their specific relationship and experience with you. Letters of support are due no later than January 1.

Click the buttons below to view the sample declarations and letters of support.

If you need help, please schedule an appointment for office hours.