What Criminal Record?

"Tamara" was a law-abiding citizen who simply wanted to find a job to support herself. Little did Tamara know, her path to financial independence would be obstructed by someone else's criminal activities and a stolen identity.

Tamara's name is fictional, but she's a real person, her story is true, and she's not alone. Countless people need help cleaning up legal messes caused by someone else's fraud. Some of them discover it as part of a quest to support their families. Others might be looking forward to standing on their own two feet for the first time.  

A Shock in the Job Search

When Tamara was denied a job interview due to a "criminal record," she was understandably confused. Why would her name would be associated with criminal charges? She hadn't committed any crimes! 

What would you do, if you were a job-hunter in this situation? Would you know how to investigate what happened, or how to take the correct legal steps to correct it? 

Most people would need an attorney. Luckily, there are resources available to help people whose lives are stolen and who can't afford an attorney to correct the problem. In fact, these "civil legal aid" providers help people of limited means to address a plethora of legal issues that would be too complicated for most people to resolve on their own. 

Uncovering the Truth

In Wisconsin, where Tamara lived, the civil legal aid funder established by the state Supreme Court is the Wisconsin Trust Account Foundation (WisTAF). 

Determined to clear her name and get back on the path to self-sufficiency, Tamara reached out to one of the providers WisTAF supports, Legal Action of Wisconsin. Their attorney quickly investigated the situation and discovered the root of the problem - Tamara's identity had been stolen and used as a criminal alias. 

Achieving Financial Independence

Professionals in the civil legal aid field frequently help people resolve barriers to employment. And, they know how to correct issues with people’s records.  

With her legal aid attorney's expertise, Tamara was able to take the necessary steps to correct her record with the state. The lawyer worked diligently to make sure criminal charges associated with Tamara's stolen identity were removed. Her record is now free and clear. 

Once Tamara's name was cleared, she was able to pursue job opportunities without the burden of a criminal record that was never hers to begin with. Her focus can be on working for her own financial well-being, without any more need for assistance.

The Transformative Impact of Civil Legal Aid

Tamara's journey from wrongful accusation to financial freedom serves as a testament to the power of civil legal services.  By providing free or low-cost legal representation, civil legal service providers ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial status, has access to the resources they need to defend their rights and pursue their goals. 

The surprise revelation of a false criminal record would be a daunting legal obstacle for almost anyone - but with the right support, Tamara was able to take control of her life and set herself up for long-term success.