Clean Slate Program

The Clean Slate Program is a reentry program that provides free legal services to persons convicted of criminal offenses in Fresno County. Clearing your criminal history may make finding employment, obtaining housing, obtaining a professional license, and getting educational financial aid easier. Our goal is to clear eligible convictions to help you get your second chance.
We can assist with:
Your Privacy Matters.
The information you share in your application is kept strictly confidential and will only be accessed and shared by those directly involved in processing your application and petition. We use this information solely to assist with clearing your record, internal statistical tracking, and external data reporting requirements.
Eligibility:
  • Your conviction occurred in Fresno County.
  • Your conviction occurred in another county and your probation was transferred and finished in Fresno County.
  • You are no longer on active probation and/or parole anywhere.
  • You have no open or pending criminal matters in Fresno, another county, or state.
If you meet all requirements, please see below on how to apply to our program.
How to Apply:
Due to high demand, we can only assist those who submit all required information. We will not be able to move forward with your application if the below steps are not completed.
Step 1: Obtain your criminal history
Fill out the below California Department of Justice Live Scan Form and Fee Waiver and go get your fingerprints taken.
Cost: The cost ranges from $25-$40 and we encourage you to shop around for the most affordable location. Use the link below to see the various locations.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application that includes your fingerprint results
There are two steps to filling out the application. (1) Submit a copy of your criminal history as a PDF and attach it to the application OR If you have difficulty attaching the document please email the PDF to cleanslate@fresnocountyca.gov. (2) Submit application.

Clean Slate Application

Online is the fastest, easiest, and most accurate way to apply for our program.  While we encourage everyone to apply online, if you prefer hard copy or in-person process, follow these steps. (1) Download the application below or pick up a hard copy from our office; (2) Print and fill out application; (3) Include your fingerprint results (Criminal history); and (4) Drop off or mail the application along with a copy of your criminal history to:
Fresno County Public Defender’s Office
ATTN: Clean Slate Program
2135 Fresno Street, Suite 100
Fresno, CA 93721
Lobby hours are 8-12pm, 1-4pm
Printable Clean Slate Application English(PDF, 153KB)
Printable Clean Slate Application Spanish(PDF, 154KB)
Step 3: Program Assessment and Eligibility
Once we have your application, we will review your eligibility and contact you with further information.  Please keep in mind that this review process can take up to twelve (12) months to complete.  If we can assist you, we will set a one-on-one telephone appointment with you.
Please wait at least six (6) months before calling or emailing regarding the status of your application.
We are appointment only and do not accept walk-ins.
Questions or to check status of your application, email cleanslate@fresnocountyca.gov.
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