What a Pardon Is

A pardon is an official act that forgives a past criminal conviction. It does not erase the conviction but can restore certain rights and relieve some of the long-term consequences of a criminal record.

Pardons can be granted at the state level in Connecticut or at the federal level for federal convictions.

Who May Need a Pardon

You may consider seeking a pardon if you:

  • Have completed your sentence for a criminal conviction.
  • Want to restore civil rights, such as the right to vote or hold public office.
  • Are seeking employment, professional licensing, or other opportunities impacted by a criminal record.
  • Want to demonstrate rehabilitation and good conduct after a conviction.

Types of Pardons

Connecticut Pardons

  • Full Pardon: Forgives the conviction completely and may restore civil rights.
  • Conditional Pardon: Forgives the conviction under specific conditions.

Federal Pardons

  • Presidential Pardons: Granted by the President of the United States for federal offenses.
  • Commutations: Reduce or eliminate the remaining sentence without forgiving the conviction.

How the Pardon Process Works

  1. Eligibility Review. Determine if you meet the requirements for a state or federal pardon.
  2. Application Preparation. Collect documentation of your conviction, sentence completion, and evidence of rehabilitation.
  3. Filing the Petition. Submit your application to the appropriate board (Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles or U.S. Department of Justice).
  4. Review and Investigation. Authorities review your criminal record, conduct background checks, and evaluate character references.
  5. Decision. The board or president decides whether to grant the pardon or commutation.

How I Help

As your attorney, I provide guidance and representation for every step of the pardon process:

  • Evaluating eligibility for a state or federal pardon.
  • Preparing and filing the pardon application.
  • Collecting and organizing supporting evidence, including proof of rehabilitation and character references.
  • Communicating with the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles or federal authorities.
  • Advising on timelines, expectations, and strategies to strengthen your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a state and federal pardon?
A state pardon is granted for convictions under state law, while a federal pardon applies to federal offenses. Eligibility and procedures differ for each.

Does a pardon erase my criminal record?
No. A pardon forgives the conviction but does not remove it from your record. It can, however, restore certain rights and reduce legal consequences.

Can anyone apply for a pardon?
Eligibility varies by state and federal law. Generally, you must have completed your sentence and demonstrated rehabilitation.

How long does the pardon process take?
Processing times vary. Connecticut pardons and federal pardons can take months to years, depending on the complexity of the case and the review process.

🌐 En Español: Solicitud de Indulto Estatal y Federal

¿Desea borrar su historial criminal y comenzar de nuevo?
En MG Equity Law, LLC, ayudamos a nuestros clientes a solicitar indultos estatales en Connecticut y clemencia federal para delitos graves.

Servicios en español:

  • Evaluación de elegibilidad
  • Preparación de solicitudes y documentos de apoyo
  • Representación ante la Junta de Indultos y Libertad Condicional
  • Asesoría legal para solicitudes de clemencia presidencial

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