How a Certificate of Relief Can Help Restore Your Rights After Prison

How a Certificate of Relief Can Help Restore Your Rights After Prison

Going to prison is incredibly hard. Not just being locked up, but getting out can be even harder. Finding a job and housing with a record ain’t no picnic. And in some states, having a record means you don’t got the same rights no more. Voting, owning a gun, traveling abroad – all off limits. But there’s hope. In many states, getting a Certificate of Relief can help restore some of them lost rights. This article explains how it works.

What is a Certificate of Relief?

A Certificate of Relief (COR) is a legal document given to folks who’ve been convicted of crimes after they complete their sentence. It don’t expunge or seal the record, but it lifts certain penalties and restrictions that come with having a conviction. Each state has their own laws about what it does.

Here’s some key facts about Certificates of Relief:

• Given to folks convicted of crimes after completing their sentence
• Doesn’t erase the conviction, but lifts certain penalties
• Each state has their own COR laws
• Goes by different names like Certificate of Recovery, Certificate of Rehabilitation

The point is to help folks with records get back on their feet. Give them a better chance at jobs, housing, and their rights. Cause serving your time is supposed to pay your debt to society, but the extra punishments after make it real hard to move on.

Who Qualifies for a Certificate of Relief?

The rules vary a lot by state. But generally, CORs are for folks convicted of low-level, non-violent crimes. Think drug possession, petty theft, minor fraud. Some states let anyone apply after completing parole/probation. Others have restrictions like:

• No violent/sex offenses
• Good behavior for X years after release
• No recent arrests
• Completion of rehab/counseling

The goal is to only give CORs to folks who’ve turned their lives around. If you got multiple felonies or recent arrests, chances are low. But for minor crimes years ago, you’ve got a shot. Check your state laws to see if you qualify.

How to Apply for a Certificate of Relief

Every state has their own application process. But the basics involve:

• Filling out a petition/application form
• Providing records like sentencing orders, completion certificates
• Letter of recommendation
• Interview with parole board or judge
• Paying filing fees (some states waive for indigent applicants)

It can take a few months to get approved. Most states require notice to the DA/prosecutor too. They can argue against granting the COR if they think you’re still a risk. But overall, approval rates are high if you meet the qualifications.

Benefits of a Certificate of Relief

What does a COR actually do for you? The benefits depend on state law, but often include:

• Easier employment – Many states prohibit denying jobs or licenses solely based on a COR-covered conviction.
• Housing – Landlords can’t use a COR conviction to automatically deny rental applications.
• Travel – A COR may make entering other countries easier despite having a record.
• Loans – Banks can still consider conviction records, but a COR shows you’ve been rehabilitated.
• Voting rights – In some states, a COR restores the right to vote after a felony.
• Gun rights – May restore ability to own a firearm, depending on the offense.

It doesn’t erase the conviction, but prevents it from being an automatic disqualification. A COR says you’ve turned over a new leaf and deserve a fair shake.

Limits of a Certificate of Relief

CORs don’t magically open all doors. They have limits like:

• Doesn’t seal criminal record – conviction still shows up on background checks.
• Doesn’t clear sex offender registry requirements.
• Doesn’t prevent conviction being considered for government jobs/licenses.
• Doesn’t guarantee private employers or landlords will rent to you.
• Doesn’t restore all rights in every state – check local laws.

So it’s not a total fresh start. But it does lift the harshest restrictions that block folks with records from moving forward. That blank box on job applications asking about convictions? You can honestly say no if it’s covered by your COR.

Should I Get a Certificate of Relief?

If you qualify, a COR is absolutely worth pursuing. Those letters after your name can open doors that seem permanently locked with a record. But it’s not a quick fix or magic wand. You still gotta put in the work to get your life on track. Easier said than done, I know. But be patient with yourself. Look into job training programs. Seek counseling if you’re struggling. Lean on family or peer support groups. Build good habits and routines.
A COR clears the biggest legal hurdles. But changing your thinking and actions is still on you. It’s a lifelong process. I believe you can do it though. Millions of folks recover from records every year. You can too, one day at a time. A COR just gives you a better chance to get there.
So if you’re ready to move forward after doing your time, don’t wait – apply today. It could be a first step to the productive, fulfilling life you deserve. There’s light ahead, I promise. Never give up hope.

References

Loss and Restoration of Civil Rights & Firearms Privileges – Collateral Consequences Resource Center

How a Certificate of Relief Can Help You Get a Job With a Felony – JobsForFelonsHub.com

Certificate of Rehabilitation or Other Relief from Disabilities – Nolo.com