Residents seeking a fresh start will have the opportunity to learn about clearing eligible criminal records and obtaining pardons during the Third Annual Expungement and Pardon Summit on Saturday at the Clarendon County Courthouse.
Hosted by Clarendon County Clerk of Court Shanita Brangman, the free event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the courthouse, 3 W. Keitt St., in Manning. Doors will open at 9 a.m., and attendees are asked to bring a valid driver's license and Social Security card.
The summit will provide information on the expungement and pardon process, eligibility requirements and resources available to help individuals move forward. Representatives from several organizations will be available to answer questions and assist attendees.
This year's featured speaker is Mechelle Potts, expungement coordinator for the Sumter County Solicitor's Office, who will explain the expungement process and available options for qualifying offenses.
Clarendon County Adult Education will also participate, sharing information about its educational services and programs designed to help adults build brighter futures through education, workforce readiness and career advancement.
Also new this year, Williamsburg Technical College will host an information table highlighting certificate and workforce training programs, including CDL, HVAC, welding, woodworking, nail technician and other career pathways. Representatives will also provide information on financial aid, enrollment opportunities and flexible class schedules available during the week and on weekends.
The annual summit builds on an initiative Brangman launched in Clarendon County in 2024 after seeing a similar program succeed in Williamsburg County. The event aims to help residents understand how expungements and pardons can remove barriers to employment, education and other opportunities by providing information, resources and guidance through the legal process.
For more information, contact the Clarendon County Clerk of Court's Office at 803-435-4443.
