The Berks County Bar Association is hosting a webinar on the Berks County Pardon Project on October 13, 2021 from 12:00 PM-1:00 PM.

Looking to make a significant and lasting difference in the lives of individuals eager to improve themselves, their families, and their communities?

The Berks County Bar Association, Berks Connections/Pre-Trial Services, state Sen. Judy Schwank and other community organizations are working to create the Berks County Pardon Project.

Pennsylvania has streamlined the procuedure for obtaining pardons, recognizing that a pardon can help non-violent ex-offenders who have "paid their debt to society" find better jobs and provide an economic boost for the entire Commonwealth. This seminar will help prepare attorneys and volunteers to become Pardon Coaches.

Serving as a Pardon Coach means helping clients with obtaining court documents, filling out their pardon application and providing tips on writing persuasive narratives, and giving applicants the best chance possible for earning a hearing before the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons.

Attorneys who complete this seminar and then volunteer as a Pardon Coach may be able to fulfill their annual Bar Association pro bono service requirement.

Leading this seminar will be Carl "Tobey" Oxholm III, Esquire, director of The Pardon Project, an initiative of Philadelphia Lawyers For Social Equity. Mr. Oxholm will discuss the Rules of Professional Conduct as they relate to pro bono work, review the pardon process, and explain the role of Pardon Coaches.