Rise Dispensaries plans to host a free expungement clinic at its recreational cannabis storefront in Paterson.
Scheduled to run Sept. 19 from 4:30–8:30 p.m. at 196 3rd Ave., the initiative is presented in partnership with New Jersey-based public resource center Blaze Responsibly.
According to Rise, attorneys will be onsite to help adults age 21 and up with expungements for nonviolent marijuana-related convictions.
During the event, the following organizations will also be present:
Blaze Responsibly founder Chirali Patel said, “Free community expungement events represent a critical partnership between the cannabis industry and communities harmed by prohibition. Through Blaze Responsibly, clearing records, we restore economic opportunity by removing barriers to employment, housing and entrepreneurship that have kept communities locked out of prosperity.
“When cannabis companies like [Green Thumb Industries] invest in our holistic approach, they’re not only doing social good, they’re building the diverse, skilled workforce and consumer base that will drive long-term industry growth.”
A Blaze representative also noted the company helps with any eligible offense in the state, not just marijuana-related convictions.
According to Rise, the collaboration with Blaze Responsibly is part of a broader mission that focuses on fostering positive change and impact through four key pillars:
Besides Paterson, Green Thumb Industries-owned Rise operates a recreational dispensary in Bloomfield as well as a medicinal storefront in Paramus.
Over the past few years, Rise has held multiple clinics at its locations in Bloomfield and Paterson. The events have assisted hundreds of individuals with expungement support and criminal history reports.
“At RISE we believe cannabis should be a source of well-being, not a barrier,” commented RISE Regional Commercial General Manager Marko Steinhagen. “Partnering with Blaze Responsibly on another expungement clinic allows us to support life changing access to legal support by helping individuals clear past records and move forward with confidence.
“Together, we’re committed to creating pathways to strengthen families, help communities thrive and build a more inclusive cannabis industry.”
Editor’s note: This story was updated at 11:12 a.m. EST Sept. 17, 2025, to include more information about Blaze Responsibly.
