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How to Apply for a Pardon in Pennsylvania
|Last Updated on: 10th October 2023, 06:38 pm
How to Apply for a Pardon in Pennsylvania
If you have a criminal record in Pennsylvania, you may be able to get a pardon to have your record cleared. A pardon in PA forgives your crime and can allow you to get an expungement to erase your record. This article will explain everything you need to know about applying for a pardon in Pennsylvania.
What is a Pardon in PA?
A pardon in Pennsylvania is when the governor officially forgives someone for a past criminal conviction. If the governor signs your pardon petition, you will get an official document called a Pardon that lists the crimes you are forgiven for. This then allows you to apply to get your record expunged.
Getting a pardon can help give you a clean slate if your criminal record is holding you back from jobs, housing, or other opportunities. It shows you have turned your life around and are worthy of forgiveness.
Who is Eligible for a Pardon in Pennsylvania?
Anyone convicted of a crime in PA can apply for a pardon from the governor. However, you typically need to meet certain criteria to be approved:
- You must have completed your full sentence, including jail time, probation, parole, and paying any fines or restitution.
- You need to have stayed out of further legal trouble for a number of years after your conviction. More serious crimes require a longer waiting period.
- You must explain in your petition why you committed the crime, how you have changed, and why you deserve forgiveness.
- You should be able to show contributions to your community through work, volunteering, church, etc.
The more time that has passed since your offense, and the less serious your crime was, the better your chances of getting approved. Violent felonies typically require at least 10 years before applying.
How to Apply for a Pardon in Pennsylvania
Here are the steps to go through to request a pardon in PA:
- Get a pardon application and fill it out completely. You need to attach documents about your criminal case.
- A probation officer will investigate your background and may interview you.
- The Board of Pardons reviews your petition and votes on whether to recommend approving it.
- If approved, you will have a hearing where the Board hears testimony from you and witnesses.
- The Board votes again – if you get 3 votes out of 5, it is recommended to the Governor.
- The Governor makes the final decision to grant or deny the pardon.
This process can take over a year in many cases. It is very thorough, so you need to be honest and patient throughout the steps. Having an attorney can help guide you through the pardon application process.
Getting Your Record Cleared After a Pardon
Receiving a pardon does not automatically erase your record in Pennsylvania. But it does make you eligible to get your record expunged.
After being granted a pardon, you can petition the court in your county of conviction to expunge your criminal record. The judge will issue an expungement order clearing your record as long as you provide a copy of the signed Pardon.
Once your record is expunged, you can legally answer “no” if asked whether you have prior convictions. Your offenses will be removed from background checks run by employers, landlords, etc.
Other Ways to Clear Your Record in PA
While a pardon is the main path to expungement in Pennsylvania, there are some other options depending on your specific situation:
- Expungement – Minor non-violent crimes may qualify for expungement after 10 years.
- ARD Program – First-time offenders may get charges dismissed through this diversion program.
- Juvenile Record Sealing – Records from under 18 can potentially be sealed from public view.
Our legal team can advise if any of these are possibilities for clearing your Pennsylvania criminal record. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Conclusion
Receiving a gubernatorial pardon in Pennsylvania can be a life-changing opportunity if you have a prior conviction holding you back. While the application process does take time, effort, and patience, it provides a path to total forgiveness and record-clearing.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, begin gathering needed documents and explain clearly in your petition why you deserve this second chance. With commitment and perseverance, you can put your past mistakes behind you for good.