Perhaps you’ve heard the term “clemency” before. Or, perhaps it is a foreign concept to you. This term relates those convicted and sentenced for crimes. On this page, you can learn more about clemency and how it might apply to you. If you think that you are a good candidate, you can apply for clemency to assist with your criminal situation. To learn more about clemency, read on!

What Is Clemency?

Clemency is defined as leniency granted for a crime. It does not mean that the crime gets overlooked or forgotten. But, in a sense it means the state forgives the crime. A person gets treated more leniently for their actions. This action happens more in severe cases. It is not considered to be a right of any individual. Rather, it acts as a privilege granted when deemed appropriate. Also, it is not easily granted to any individual. This acts similarly to a pardon because the state forgives rather than overlooks the crime. This does not clear your criminal record.

Who Authorizes Clemency?

This action acts as a privilege and thus can only get granted by a select group of people. These include only the president of the United States and the governors of each state. The president has the authority to grant clemency for federal crimes. The governors have the authority to grant clemency for state crimes. This is if they feel the need to lessen or moderate a sentence given to an individual.

What Is The Difference Between a Pardon and Clemency?

A pardon falls under the category of clemency. They are similar in the sense that they both are a type of forgiveness for a crime. However, they are different in several ways. Clemency results in lessening a sentence or it results in granting more leniency to an individual deemed deserving. A pardon, on the other hand, is something that will actually erase the criminal history altogether. If the Board of Pardons thinks that you are a good candidate and they grant you a pardon, it will be as if the criminal record did not even exist.

How Is Clemency Shown?

Clemency can occur in several different forms. The first is a pardon in which there is forgiveness for a crime in which some of a sentence is removed. The second is a commutation. A commutation simply lessens the sentence. A common type of commutation is to reduce the death penalty to a life in prison sentence. And the final form is a reprieve that delays or puts off the punishment until the situation is analyzed further. A reprieve occurs when a case needs a full investigation. This ensures that the appropriate punishment is given to an individual. None of these forms will clear a public record.

If you believe that you, someone you know, or a family member deserves this action, it is in your best interest to seek the help of a professional. You can contact an attorney here to discuss your situation. We can review the situation and help you determine if you are a good candidate for clemency. If so, our office can help you with your application.