State vs. Presidential Pardons in Connecticut

There are two different entities that can grant a pardon. They are given by the state or by the President of the United States. These two pardons (a state pardon and a presidential pardon) have many similarities and differences. On this page, I will compare and contrast state vs. presidential pardons in Connecticut. This can help you understand which one you should apply for.

Similarities

If you want to apply for a pardon, you should consider both the state and the presidential pardon. Both of these pardons do the same thing. They erase your criminal record if granted. Whichever pardon you choose, the application process will be similar. You will have to fill out a form, application, or petition for the pardon. You must state why you want a pardon. Also state why you believe that you qualify for a pardon. In addition, you should provide information related to your criminal history and record. This will help those looking at your application get a full understanding of your convictions. You should also submit character references. Generally, three is a good number of references. These references should be from people in your life who can show how you have changed and grown since the time of your conviction.

In addition to the application process being similar, the eligibility requirements are also similar for the state pardon and the presidential pardon. You must wait a minimum of five years since the time of your last conviction before you can apply for a pardon. Your application will be denied if you don’t wait the appropriate amount of time before applying.

Differences

Despite the similarities, there are notable differences between the state pardon and the presidential pardon. The most important difference that you must understand is that these types of pardons refer to different crimes. A pardon is granted by the Board of Pardons in your state when a state law is broken and you are committed of a state crime. On the other hand, you need to apply for a presidential pardon if you want to be pardoned for a federal felony conviction. The president has the power to grant clemency in this case.

As I’ve mentioned, another difference between these pardons is the person or entity who will grant or deny your pardon. When applying for a state pardon, the Board of Pardons and Paroles is in charge of reviewing your application and interviewing you during a pardon hearing. If you are applying for a presidential pardon, your petition will be reviewed by the Pardon Attorney, the Attorney General, and the President of the United States.

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.

Consult a Connecticut Lawyer on State vs. Presidential Pardons

These are just a few of the main differences and similarities between the state pardon and the presidential pardon in Connecticut. If you are still confused about which pardon you should apply for, please contact me. I can help you determine which option is right for you. If you have determined which pardon you want to apply for, and you are looking for assistance with your application, you can also contact me.