What is the Difference Between the Presidential Pardon and State Pardon?

Have you been convicted of a federal or military crime? Do you feel as though your sentence was excessive for the crime committed? Or maybe you feel as though your lesson has been learned and you’re ready to move on? If any of these cases apply to you, read on to see what to do next.

Pardon Tips

• Contact your lawyer to help you acquire and fill out the official pardons form. You can begin gathering your paperwork at this time and begin filling out the application.
• Make sure that you are eligible for a pardon before you begin the process! A pardon form can only be completed once five years of a sentence are served. Within this five year period, all stipulations and restraints put on the individual must be fully and legally followed. Doing so helps to demonstrate that they are ready to return to their normal everyday life.
• All forms excluding military crimes will be forwarded to the Office of the Pardon Attorney, Department of Justice.
• The only way you can be pardoned for a federal crime is to have it sent to the above office with the President’s approval. You will have to work with the pardon attorney for the United States in order to get a pardon at the federal level.
• If you are requesting a pardon for a military court-martial offense, the pardon must be sent to the Secretary of the Military Department that originally had jurisdiction in your case. A military pardon cannot alter any discharge that has occurred. If you seek assistance with a discharge that occurred, contact the appropriate military personnel.
• Within your pardon application you need at least three specified references. They must be willing to speak on your behalf.
• The pardon officials will do a detailed investigation on your life in the years since your conviction and sentence. They will examine your character throughout this time period. They will review your entire criminal history. They will also review any hardships you may have been facing since your sentencing. They will see if you have been involved in more community service efforts, and contributions to the community.
• If there are any false statements on your application there will be refusal for your pardon, along with heavy fines. So make sure you are as accurate as you can be!
• The power to pardon a federal offense is reserved strictly for the President of the United States of America.

Getting Help

If you feel as though you deserve a pardon for a federal crime that you have committed, please contact us here.

You may feel that your sentence was unfair or excessively long or harsh. A pardon is generally seen as forgiveness for a crime. Along with this forgiveness is an acknowledgment that your actions were illegal. You must understand the extent of your crime. A pardon shows that since your sentencing you have outstanding moral character and that you are ready to move on.
Have more questions about pardons? Contact us and set up a free consultation.