If you’re reading this, you may be seeking to rid yourself or a loved one of a criminal record. It’s important to know that under Connecticut law, there are three different types of pardons available to you. If you are not granted the pardon you originally sought, you may apply and qualify for another type of pardon.
The following is some information regarding the three types of pardons in Connecticut:
Full pardon – A full pardon is often referred to as an “expungement,” and if granted, it will result in the complete erasure of your criminal record. The erasure will be so thorough that no employer or other parties performing background checks on you will be able to see any information regarding your criminal cases or conviction. It should be no surprise that this is the most sought-after type of pardon in Connecticut.
Conditional pardon – In some cases, the Connecticut Board of Pardons may be willing to grant your pardon but may want to impose certain conditions on you to ensure your suitability for the pardon. Such conditions must be reasonable and specific and can include requirements such as substance abuse counseling, anger management, and parenting courses. If you complete the conditions, you may have your record erased just like a full pardon. You can, however, also choose not to accept the conditions and the pardon. If you accept the conditions and then violate them, you risk having your pardon revoked.
Certificate of Employability – If you don’t qualify for a full pardon or a conditional pardon, you still may find some relief from your conviction, at least in your professional life. At its discretion, the Board of Pardons can issue you a Certificate of Employability. This form of relief is important because many professional licensure boards and employers do not consider convicted offenders eligible for professional licenses or jobs. A Certificate of Employability prevents companies from denying you employment or a license based on your past criminal conviction. This certificate can significantly improve your professional opportunities even if it seems like you may not be granted a pardon.
The more carefully you complete your pardon application, the more likely it is that you may be granted a full pardon or expungement by the board. Having the help of an attorney who fully understands the complexities of the pardon process and the subtle differences between the types of pardons in Connecticut can only help your situation.
A Connecticut expungement attorney can help you
At Koffsky & Felsen, LLC in Connecticut, we regularly assist individuals convicted of drug crimes, assault, robbery, and more seek pardons to help improve their futures. We will go over all your options to clear your criminal record and restore your reputation and professional opportunities. We know that life after a pardon can be easier and better, so we strive for the best results possible in your case.
If you would like more information about your options to erase your criminal record, please call our law office at 203-327-1500 today.
1https://www.justice.gov/pardon/pardon-information-and-instructions
2https://portal.ct.gov/BOPP/Pardon-Division/Pardon/Pardon-Application-Process
3https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_961a.htm#sec_54-142a
