Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance's Evan Cohen joins US law firm leaders to stand behind Clean Slate NY Act

Clifford Chance Regional Managing Partner for the Americas Evan Cohen has joined more than 50 leaders of top US law firms to release a memo in support of the Clean Slate New York Act (Senate Bill S1553C) and call on the New York State Legislature to immediately pass the legislation.

If passed, the Bill would end the long-term consequences of a conviction record by establishing an automatic process for sealing most records after the requirements of the criminal legal system have been met. Due to their conviction records, millions of New Yorkers are kept from accessing life essentials like employment and housing. With this memo, Clifford Chance and other law firms join an ever-expanding coalition that includes labor unions, business leaders and faith leaders, in support of the Bill.

The memo, available here, explains that the Bill's passage would transform the lives of millions of New Yorkers and provide economic benefits to the state. It also notes that the current system for sealing criminal records perpetuates racial inequality, as criminal records disproportionately impact Black and Latino New Yorkers.

Cohen commented: "The Clean Slate Act is a way to correct injustices experienced by New Yorkers who have served their time but are unable to access housing or employment or rebuild their lives. Clifford Chance is committed to widening access to justice for all, and I am proud to support the coalition as it works to enact this important legislation."

Learn more about Clifford Chance's community and pro bono work ensuring access to justice.