Imagine doing everything right after a mistake: serving your time; turning your life around; maybe even going back to school or landing a steady job; only to find that your past keeps showing up at the worst possible moments. That’s the reality for millions of Americans with criminal records. Even a single conviction can be...
For individuals with a past criminal record, essential aspects of life—such as securing stable, affordable housing and gainful employment opportunities—often come with built-in obstacles. Many people with records are not repeat offenders; a poor choice years ago haunts them, sometimes for decades. They have served their time and are ready to move forward, yet they...
The affordable housing crisis has significantly contributed to rising homelessness rates in many regions. One of the busiest areas of our work at the Legal Aid and Defender Association (LADA) is helping people remain in their homes by ensuring that crucial repairs for safety and well-being are implemented and by giving a voice to the...
