Personal statement

How to submit a personal statement

If your attorney asked you to submit a personal statement, please follow these instructions. A personal statement is a letter you write that states why you want to clear your record. The judge in the county you are applying in will read this when deciding on your case.

Instructions for writing your personal statement:

Please follow these instructions when writing your personal statement. Answer all the questions below in your letter. Please write at least 3-5 sentences in each paragraph.

1. Introduction:
   • Write the date.
   • Start the letter with To Whom It May Concern,
2. First Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences):
   • Introduce yourself to the judge.
   • What has been going on in your life recently?
3. Second Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences):
   • How is your life different now, since your last conviction?
4. Third Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences):
   • What jobs, programs, activities, or community service have you been involved in?
   • What did you do in those programs?
5. Fourth Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences):
   • What goals are you working on achieving in your life right now?
   • How are you working on achieving your goals?
6. Fifth Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences):
   • Why do you want to clear your record?
   • How will clearing your record change your life or help you?
7. Closing:
   • Write Sincerely,
   • Print your full name.

 Where to send your personal statement:

Please send your personal statement to the county who requested them from you. You can find their contact information on the county Public Defender and legal aid contact page.