Pittsburgh Pardon Lawyer

A criminal conviction can continue to affect employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing, education, firearm rights, and many other aspects of life long after a sentence has been completed. In some situations, a Pennsylvania pardon may provide an opportunity to move beyond the lasting consequences of a criminal conviction.

A pardon is different from an expungement. A pardon is granted by the Governor of Pennsylvania following a recommendation from the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. For many convictions, obtaining a pardon is the first step before an individual may later seek expungement of the criminal record.

Levenson Law Firm represents individuals throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania seeking gubernatorial pardons. Every matter begins with a careful review of the client’s criminal history, rehabilitation, current circumstances, and the legal issues that may affect eligibility. We then develop a strategy tailored to the individual’s goals, supporting documentation, and the strongest presentation of the application.

The strategy depends on the case. The commitment does not.

What Is a Pennsylvania Pardon?

A pardon is executive clemency granted by the Governor. An expungement is a court process that removes certain eligible criminal records. For many convictions, a pardon must be obtained before an expungement becomes available.

Many individuals seek a pardon because they have successfully rebuilt their lives and continue to experience the lasting consequences of an old criminal record.

When Should You Contact a Pardon Lawyer?

You should consider speaking with a pardon lawyer if:

• You have completed your sentence.
• You have remained law-abiding for many years.
• Your criminal record continues to affect employment opportunities.
• You are unable to obtain a professional license because of a conviction.
• You wish to restore opportunities limited by your criminal history.
• You may ultimately wish to pursue expungement following a pardon.
• You are unsure whether your circumstances make you a strong pardon candidate.

A careful evaluation can help determine whether pursuing a pardon is appropriate and whether additional time or rehabilitation may strengthen an application.

The Pennsylvania Pardon Process

The pardon process generally begins with preparing and filing an application with the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. The application requires detailed information concerning the conviction, the applicant’s background, rehabilitation, employment history, community involvement, and reasons for requesting clemency.

If the application advances through the review process, the applicant may appear before the Board of Pardons. The Board then determines whether to recommend clemency to the Governor, who makes the final decision.

Each application is evaluated individually, and the process may take considerable time depending upon the Board’s schedule and the complexity of the case.

Factors That May Support a Pardon Application

Every application is unique, but the Board may consider numerous factors, including:

• The seriousness of the offense.
• The amount of time since the conviction.
• The applicant’s rehabilitation.
• Employment history.
• Community involvement.
• Acceptance of responsibility.
• Character references.
• The reasons a pardon is being requested.
• The overall interests of justice.

Developing a persuasive application requires careful preparation, supporting documentation, and a thoughtful presentation of the applicant’s circumstances.

Pardons and Expungements Are Different

Many people use the terms interchangeably, but they are different legal remedies.

A pardon is executive clemency granted by the Governor. An expungement is a court process that removes certain eligible criminal records. For many convictions, a pardon must be obtained before an expungement becomes available.

Determining the appropriate strategy requires evaluating the client’s criminal history, long-term goals, and the relief available under Pennsylvania law.

Benefits of Receiving a Pardon

Although every situation is different, a pardon may create opportunities that were previously unavailable because of a criminal conviction. Depending upon the circumstances, it may improve employment prospects, professional licensing opportunities, educational opportunities, and other aspects of daily life. It also may permit an individual to pursue expungement of certain convictions when authorized by law.

What Clients Can Expect From Levenson Law Firm

Every pardon matter begins with a careful review of the client’s criminal history, rehabilitation, and long-term goals. We work closely with clients to prepare a complete, persuasive application supported by appropriate documentation and thoughtful presentation.

We intentionally maintain a selective caseload so every matter receives the preparation, attention, and professional judgment it deserves.

No lawyer can honestly promise that a pardon will be granted. What we can promise is careful preparation, sound professional judgment, and individualized representation throughout the pardon process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Pardons

Does a pardon erase a criminal conviction?

No. A pardon and an expungement are separate legal remedies. Depending upon the conviction, a pardon may permit an individual to later seek expungement.

Who grants pardons in Pennsylvania?

Pardons are granted by the Governor of Pennsylvania after consideration by the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons.

How long does the pardon process take?

Every application is different. The overall timeline depends upon the Board’s review process and scheduling.

Can every conviction receive a pardon?

No. Every application is evaluated individually. The strength of the application depends upon numerous factors, including rehabilitation, the nature of the offense, and the applicant’s overall circumstances.