Once you determine that you are eligible for a Pardon, you can get your fingerprints taken at your local police department and begin the process of requesting police reports, criminal history records, and obtaining character letters from family and friends. It is important to keep track of and gather any credentials, degrees, certifications, awards, etc. that demonstrate your rehabilitation, contributions to the community, employment and education attained since your conviction.
How much does a Pardon cost?
It varies. We work closely with our clients to give them the best opportunity to get a Pardon. Should your initial application be denied, you can always reapply, but you will have to wait at least one year before submitting another application. Some of the reasons that Pardons are denied are that not enough time has elapsed since the date of the conviction, the seriousness of the offense, and concerns about safety to the community. We want to get it right the first time, and it is important to prepare an application that reflects everything you have done to change your life and better yourself since your arrest. We charge a flat fee for preparing Pardons, and our fee depends on the nature of the offense, the number of prior convictions, the complexity of the circumstances related to your case, and other factors which we are happy to discuss with you.
How long does the Pardons process take?
The Pardons process takes a long time. The Pardon application is lengthy and it is important to be thorough when filling it out. We usually advise clients that the process takes between 12-18 months from application to decision. This can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the number of applications that are being reviewed by the Pardons Board, and various other factors. Applying for a Pardon is a labor-intensive process, but since you are asking the Board of Pardons to expunge your criminal record, it is important for you to demonstrate to the Board why you are a good candidate for a Pardon and that it is in the interests of justice to grant you a Pardon. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and once your application is screened, you will receive notice indicating whether any additional information needs to be submitted, whether your application is denied, or whether you will be required to appear at a hearing before the Board of Pardons. Sometimes Pardons are granted “on the papers” and you will receive notice of this by mail if that is the case.
You should receive a letter from the Board of Pardons approximately four (4) months after submitting your Pardons Application. You will be notified that the Board has granted a hearing, denied your application, or has granted a Provisional Pardon. If you are granted a Provisional Pardon, you will receive a Certificate of Employability in the same mailing.
How many Pardons hearings take place per year?
There are currently eight (8) hearings per year. Before each hearing, there is a pre-screen session at which the Board reviews all of the cases submitted for Pardon consideration for that particular hearing session. Pardons hearings are open to the public.
Do I need to appear at the Hearing?
Yes, the Board may require your appearance at your hearing. You will receive a letter notifying whether you are required to appear at your hearing and you may be required to do so even if you are no longer a resident of Connecticut.
Is there a deadline to apply for a Pardon?
No, there is no deadline. Pardons are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I seek a Pardon for any crime?
Technically, yes. However, certain crimes, especially crimes of violence, are very difficult cases. The Board considers the need to protect the public when making decisions regarding expunging an applicant’s criminal history.
Can I apply for a Pardon by myself?
Some individuals choose to apply for Pardons on their own though we advise potential clients to have an attorney assist in the preparation of their Pardon application in order ensure that their application is thorough and accurate. A copy of the Pardon application can be obtained here. If you need assistance or have any questions about the application, you may call the Pardons Unit of the Board of Pardons and Paroles at (203) 805-6643. If you want to retain an attorney to assist you with the Pardon Application, you can contact our office at (203) 327-1500.
