The Restitution Relief Fund supports youth and young adults held under the collateral consequences of court involvement. Juvenile restitution if unpaid can prevent a young person from having their juvenile record sealed when they turn 18. State laws that allow the sealing of juvenile records ensure that youth can move forward in their lives with hope and freedom after involvement in the juvenile criminal legal system.

We aid young people in sealing their juvenile records through connection to legal advice, public education campaigns, and access to a sustainable fund that assists in paying their legal financial obligations. If youth owe restitution to the courts, their records cannot be sealed, standing in the way of their ability to finding secure housing and stable employment, as well as accessing other resources that help them establish healthy futures. Sealing or expunging convictions can be critical to youths’ abilities to move forward in their lives.