Pennsylvania Pardon Process
Seeking a Pardon in Pennsylvania to Erase a Criminal Record
In Pennsylvania, in order to have a felony or misdemeanor conviction removed from a criminal record, a person must normally obtain a pardon. A successful pardon can restore important civil rights that were lost due to the conviction—including the right to own or possess a firearm.
Whether you’re trying to clear your criminal record for employment, housing, or personal reasons, a pardon can provide a true second chance. But the process is long, detailed, and often confusing. Here’s what you need to know.
How the Pennsylvania Pardon Process Works
The process begins with filing a pardon application to the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. The application is reviewed to determine whether it should advance to the interview stage. Not all applications move forward—some are denied outright at the initial review stage.
The Pardon Interview
If your case moves forward, you’ll be interviewed by the five-member Board of Pardons, which includes the Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and three other appointed members. You will be asked about your past, your conviction, your life since the offense, and why you believe a pardon should be granted.
What the Board Considers When Reviewing a Pardon Request
The Board of Pardons evaluates many factors, but two of the most important are:
Time Since the Conviction
While anyone can apply for a pardon at any time, the Board rarely grants pardons to those who apply immediately after sentencing. The more serious the offense, the more time the Board typically expects to pass before considering a pardon.
Many attorneys recommend waiting at least 10 years—but there is no official rule. Each case is evaluated based on its unique facts and circumstances.Evidence of Rehabilitation
The Board looks for proof that you have made meaningful changes in your life. This includes maintaining steady employment, engaging in community service, avoiding any new criminal activity, and demonstrating remorse and reform.
If the Board votes to recommend a pardon, the case is sent to the Governor of Pennsylvania, who has the final authority to approve or deny the pardon.
How Long Does the Pardon Process Take?
From start to finish, the pardon process typically takes 2 to 3 years. Most of the effort happens early in the process, during application preparation, collecting documents, writing a strong personal statement, and preparing for the hearing.
Why Hire a Pennsylvania Pardon Attorney?
Although hiring an attorney is not required to file for a pardon, working with an experienced Pennsylvania pardon attorney can significantly improve your chances of success. A skilled pardon lawyer:
Understands how the Board evaluates applications
Knows what details to highlight or explain
Can help craft a compelling personal narrative
Helps avoid mistakes that could delay or derail your application
Prepares you thoroughly for the interview and hearing
If you’re going to invest three years into clearing your record or restoring your Second Amendment rights, it’s worth making sure the application is done correctly the first time.
Contact a Pennsylvania Criminal Pardon Attorney
If you were convicted in Pennsylvania, Attorney Jason S. Dunkle of JD Law can help guide you through the pardon process. With decades of experience in Pennsylvania criminal law, Attorney Dunkle understands the complexities of the Board of Pardons and how to present a strong, well-prepared application.
For a free case review, contact JD Law by email or leave a message at (814) 689-9139. Email is the preferred method of communication, as phone calls are directed to voicemail due to the high volume of spam and unsolicited calls.