As 2024 comes to a close, our small and dedicated team at Record Eraser wanted to take a moment to reflect on a year of growth, meaningful connections, and impactful service. At our heart is the mission to help Pennsylvanians with criminal records move forward toward brighter opportunities like securing employment, housing, education or simply living without the burden of a record.
From courtroom victories to community partnerships, this year was filled with milestones that strengthened our dedication to serving those who need it most. Attorney Mark Walmer, with over 35 years of experience, continued to lead with compassion and knowledge, helping hundreds of individuals take the life-changing steps toward a fresh start.
Let’s take a look at the best of 2024, starting with a video from Attorney Walmer himself!
1. Giving Back Through Pro Bono Work
This year, Attorney Mark Walmer proudly volunteered as a pro bono attorney at a Pardon Clinic in Lancaster County. Organized by local leaders and advocacy groups including Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El, the clinic provided free resources and guidance to individuals navigating the pardon process.
For Attorney Walmer, giving back to the community is a core value in the work we do. Helping individuals access these critical services, especially those who might otherwise struggle to afford legal representation, is engraved in the foundation of who we are as a small family firm.
(Read More: News Release)
2. Partnering with CareerLink’s Workforce Kiosks
During the summer, Lancaster CareerLink invited Record Eraser to be featured as a community resource on their newest Workforce Kiosks. This initiative aimed to help job seekers access critical services by highlighting current job opportunities, reentry services like resume workshops, and legal resources like Record Eraser. By being part of this exciting project, we were able to reach out to Pennsylvanians who may not know that their record may be eligible to be sealed, pardoned or expunged, opening doors to secure employment.
(Read more: LNP | Lancaster Online Highlight)
3. Leading Nationwide Educational Seminars
Attorney Walmer’s expertise in Pennsylvania Pardons, Expungements, and Clean Slate 3.0 was recognized on state and national levels this year. He was honored to lead seminars for:
- The National Association of Continuing Legal Education (NACLE), where he educated fellow attorneys on the complexities of Pennsylvania Clean Slate and the pardon process.
- The Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (PACDL), sharing insights on expungements and Clean Slate law with other Pennsylvania attorneys.
Educating attorneys across Pennsylvania ensures that more individuals have access to skilled legal support for clearing their records.
4. Featured on ABC27 News
In August, ABC27 News featured Record Eraser in a segment highlighting our services for pardons, expungements, and Clean Slate law. This opportunity allowed us to share our mission with a larger audience and remind Pennsylvanians that clearing their record is possible.
The segment emphasized our commitment to making legal services accessible, affordable, and understandable for everyone.
Watch the full feature: ABC27 Segment
Attorney Mark Walmer and Anastasia Lehneis (Marketing & Business Development)
5. In-Person Expungement Representation Across Pennsylvania
This year, Attorney Walmer hit the road—traveling miles across Pennsylvania to represent clients in person at their expungement hearings. From counties near and far, Attorney Walmer showed up for clients who deserve a second chance.
Whether it was Washington County, Philadelphia, or counties in between, each expungement hearing was more than just a court appearance; it was a life-changing opportunity for our clients. Attorney Walmer’s dedication to showing up in person reflects our belief that every individual deserves someone to fight for their future.
Read about Attorney Walmer’s experience in Washington County: Washington County Blog
Washington County Courthouse in Eastern Pennsylvania
6. Embracing the Digital Age
Attorney Walmer is a big believer in continually improving our processes so we can focus on what matters most: our clients. This year, we began leaning more into helpful and secured AI tools to enhance our workflow, streamline admin tasks, and provide faster responses. Our team members Molly, Maribel, Ana, and Kevin are now diving into devoting more time and care to our clients’ cases—ensuring they receive the personal attention they deserve as they navigate the expungement, pardon or clean slate process.
In addition to streamlining our workflow and leveraging AI tools to better serve our clients, we’ve also been expanding our reach online. This year, we’ve worked hard to grow our social media presence, creating engaging content to keep you informed, inspired, and connected.
From educational posts about expungements and pardons to success stories from clients, we’re using platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and our YouTube channel to share valuable information and updates. Whether it’s a quick tip on navigating the pardon process or a behind-the-scenes look at our team, our goal is to make the path to clearing your record as transparent and accessible as possible.
7. Strengthening Partnerships Across Pennsylvania
This year a big goal of ours was to build strong relationships with attorneys across Pennsylvania who share our mission of helping individuals clear their criminal records. By working together, we can ensure that more Pennsylvanians—no matter where they live—have access to quality legal services for pardons, expungements, and Clean Slate law.
Collaborations like these are critical in reaching individuals in every corner of the state who are ready to take the steps toward a better future.
Attorney Mark Walmer Making Connections at LNP Job Fair
8. A New Home on Lititz Pike
In August, we took an exciting step forward by relocating to our new office from Harrisburg Pike to Lititz Pike right off Route 30. This move was more than just changing addresses—it was about creating a space where our team could work more closely together and where we could better welcome clients and those looking to learn more about the record-clearing process.
Our new location provides a welcoming environment for consultations and meetings. Whether you’re stopping by for your first conversation or checking in on your case, we’re proud to have a space where our team can help you feel heard, supported, and confident about taking the next steps.
Maribel Gonzalez and Molly Walmer prepping for the move!
9. The Board of Pardons by the Numbers
While the personal stories of our clients are what inspire and drive us every day, we also find motivation in the measurable progress made this year. From phone calls with Board of Pardons members to being asked by the pardon application development team to review and provide experienced insights into the new pardon applications set to roll out in 2025, we’ve worked more closely than ever to support individuals seeking a second chance.
To provide a broader perspective, we’ve gathered some key statistics from the Board of Pardons website alongside our own milestones. Together, they offer a bird’s-eye view of the progress being made across Pennsylvania—and the role we’ve played in helping clients navigate this journey.
- 623 Pardon Applications Reviewed in 2024
- 486 Applications Recommended for Public Hearings by the Board of Pardons
- 202 Pardons Granted by Governor Shapiro
Each of these numbers represents real lives being changed – parents securing stable housing for their families, individuals pursuing better jobs, and communities benefiting from the contributions of rehabilitated citizens. We’re deeply honored to play a part in helping our clients navigate this challenging but rewarding process.
10. Honored at a Local Non-Profit Gala
As a wonderful end to the year, Attorney Mark Walmer was honored at a local gala celebrating his service and dedication to The GateHouse, a recovery organization that provides housing and support for individuals overcoming addiction. Mark’s journey with The GateHouse began in 2016, when he was invited to attend a board meeting after spending time visiting their facilities to answer questions about bench warrants and clearing criminal records.
Impressed by the commitment of the board and staff to tackling the opioid epidemic, Mark joined the board and served in various capacities over the years, including President of the Board. During his involvement, Mark was able to see The GateHouse thrive through significant challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, acquiring five new properties—including their flagship residence in Marietta—and continuing to provide life-changing recovery services.
“After eight years, I decided to step back and focus fully on helping Pennsylvanians clear their criminal records, but I will always admire the work of The GateHouse and its incredible team. They help people stand strong in recovery, and I’m grateful to have been a part of their mission.” — Attorney Mark Walmer
Attorney Walmer’s recognition at the gala was a celebration of his impactful leadership and steadfast support for an organization that has made a profound difference in the community.
What’s Next for Record Eraser?
As we look ahead to 2025, our mission remains clear; to provide compassionate, accessible, and expert legal services for individuals seeking a second chance. We’re excited to continue expanding our reach, deepening community partnerships, and advocating for the people of Pennsylvania by bringing you some exciting things including:
- Continue offering free educational resources to empower Pennsylvanians.
- Partner with more community organizations and workforce initiatives.
- Offer in-person and virtual educational seminar.
- Improve our services through innovation and client feedback.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To our clients, community, and supporters, thank you for trusting us and allowing us to represent you. Whether you came to us for legal help, shared your story, or referred someone in need, your support fuels our mission to help Pennsylvanians leave their past behind to have the future they deserve.
Ready to Start Fresh in 2025?
If you or someone you know is ready to clear their record, Record Eraser is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today by filling out the form below for a consultation and let us help you take the first step toward a brighter future.
If you are interested in starting the process to have your record cleared, fill out the form below to have our team research you criminal record for free!
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