Facing criminal conviction in Milford and throughout the state of Connecticut entails serious and enduring consequences. Heavy fines and prolonged incarceration are common outcomes, alongside the creation of a criminal record that can profoundly impact housing, employment, and educational opportunities.

Fortunately, state law offers relief in the form of pardons for many convicted individuals. An absolute pardon can effectively erase a criminal record, allowing people to move forward with their lives. However, navigating the pardon process involves various complexities and limitations, which the legal team at Ruane Attorneys is equipped to explain. Contact a Milford pardons lawyer today to explore your legal options.

Eligibility Requirements for Pardons

Individuals with prior criminal convictions may request an absolute pardon, subject to certain conditions outlined by the Board of Parolees and Pardons. These conditions include waiting periods based on the severity of the conviction:

• Felony convictions require a minimum waiting period of five years from the date of conviction.
• Misdemeanor convictions necessitate a waiting period of three years.

Additional factors influencing pardon eligibility include:

• No ongoing criminal cases in any jurisdiction
• Not currently being on parole or probation
• No “nolled” charges on record in the past 13 months

A Milford pardons attorney can assist individuals in assessing their eligibility for record clearance.

Applying for an Absolute Pardon

If eligible, a local pardons lawyer can guide individuals through the process of submitting formal pardon applications online. This process entails gathering necessary documentation, including:

• State criminal history report
• Notarized background investigation authorization
• Three reference questionnaires
• Police reports for relevant arrests
• Letters from probation officers, if applicable
• Copy of current driver’s license or State ID

Our pardons attorney can facilitate the collection and submission of these documents, streamlining the application process.

Upcoming Legal Reforms

Ongoing criminal justice reform efforts include modernized procedures for automatic pardons following certain convictions. In Milford and statewide, Public Act 21-32 took effect on January 1, 2023.

• Misdemeanor Convictions: Courts will presume issuance of a pardon for qualifying convictions, with a waiting period of seven years for offenses after January 1, 2020.
• Felony Convictions: Certain felony classes are exempt, but individuals with qualifying Class D or E felonies may seek pardons after remaining offense-free for ten years.

Under the new laws, many pardons will occur automatically because the application process has been streamlined. If you have questions about your eligibility, you can always reach out to a lawyer to discuss your situation. Our Milford pardons lawyer can provide insights into these legal changes and evaluate their applicability to individual cases.

Consult a Milford Pardons Attorney Today

Everyone deserves a second chance. An absolute pardon can offer a fresh start by clearing a criminal record. At Ruane Attorneys, our Milford pardons lawyer can assess eligibility, facilitate application processes, and advocate for clients seeking pardons. We have helped hundreds of clients achieve their fresh start through a pardon. We are familiar with the Connecticut application process as well as the new laws and how they impact those applying for a pardon. Contact us today to discuss your situation and explore options for a brighter future.