Youth Justice and Education Services

The Education Defense and Justice for Youth program works to keep youth – particularly youth who are Black, Indigenous, or people of color – in school and out of the legal system. Our mission is to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline by challenging the marginalization and criminalization of youth in their schools and communities. We provide free legal advice and representation regarding: 

• Juvenile court cases  
• Sealing of juvenile court records (juvenile “clean slate” services)  
• School expulsion hearings and Manifestation Determination Review meetings 
• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 plans, and other specialized supports for students, particularly for students who are facing discipline or court involvement 

We also offer social work services to clients needing additional support.  

How to Access Our Services 

At this time, we are only able to respond to inquiries about students who are facing expulsion from a school in Alameda County or about juvenile court record sealing matters in Alameda County. For assistance with either of these types of matters, Please call (510) 982-7695 or email EDJYintake@ebclc.org. Clearly state your full name, your phone number, your availability for a call, and a brief description of your issue.

If you need assistance about any other matter, visit our Youth Justice and Education referrals page.  Here you will find a list of referrals and self-help materials. We expect to fully reopen intake to all matters starting in early 2025.

Eligibility for Services 

We will determine your eligibility for services after we have completed an intake assessment. In general, our services are available to youth in grades K-12 who live in or attend school in Alameda County.

For information about other service providers who may be able to help with your issue, please see our Youth Justice and Education referrals page.

Know Your Rights and Other Self-Help Materials  

For more information about youth rights and self-help materials and resources related to special education, school discipline, juvenile court, and related issues, please see our Know Your Rights and Self-Help Materials page.