Receiving a New London criminal conviction can have enduring repercussions. Often, hefty fines or lengthy jail terms accompany such verdicts. Moreover, the establishment of a criminal record can profoundly impact housing, job prospects, and educational pursuits.

Fortunately, state law extends the opportunity for many convicted individuals to petition for a pardon, offering a pathway to erase their criminal history and embrace a fresh start. However, navigating the intricacies of pardon eligibility requires legal guidance, a service the seasoned team at Ruane Attorneys can provide. Reach out to a New London pardons lawyer today to explore your legal avenues.

Eligibility Criteria for Pardons

Individuals with prior criminal convictions may qualify to request an absolute pardon or may qualify for one automatically under recent Connecticut laws. The Board of Parolees and Pardons explains that specific waiting periods govern the eligibility for this form of relief.

For felony convictions, a mandatory waiting period of at least five years from the date of conviction applies before one can seek an absolute pardon. Conversely, misdemeanor-related pardon requests entail a three-year waiting period.

Several factors influence the possibility of obtaining an absolute pardon, including:

• Absence of ongoing criminal cases in any jurisdiction.
• Non-existence of current parole or probation terms.
• Absence of “nolled” charges on the individual’s record within the past 13 months.

A New London pardons attorney can assist individuals in assessing their eligibility for criminal record expungement.

Application Process for Absolute Pardons

Upon meeting the eligibility criteria, individuals can enlist the aid of a local absolute pardon lawyer to initiate formal online applications.

Procuring the requisite paperwork constitutes the initial step, which entails:

• Obtaining a state criminal history report.
• Acquiring a notarized background investigation authorization.
• Completing three reference questionnaires. 
• Securing police reports for any arrests resulting in convictions within the past decade.
• Gathering letters from probation officers, if applicable. 
• Providing a copy of a current driver’s license or State ID. 

A pardons attorney from our firm can facilitate the collection and submission of this documentation via the online portal.

Rather than in-person hearings, the Board conducts virtual interviews to verify information and gather supplementary data, ideally culminating in the issuance of an absolute pardon.

Legal Updates for Criminal Record Expungement

Ongoing criminal justice reforms encompass a modernized legal framework permitting individuals with criminal convictions to receive automatic pardons under certain circumstances. In New London and statewide, Public Act 21-32 took effect on January 1, 2023.

For misdemeanor convictions, the legislation presumes issuance of a pardon after seven years, effective January 1, 2020, unless compelling reasons for denial are presented by prosecutors or law enforcement.

While felonies entail a more complex process, individuals with Class D or E felony convictions may seek a pardon after maintaining a clean record for a decade, provided the offense does not fall within exempt categories. A New London pardons lawyer can elucidate how the Clean Slate Bill may offer relief and assist in navigating the pardon process.

Consult a New London Pardons Attorney Today

Irrespective of past indiscretions, individuals deserve the opportunity for a fresh start. Eligibility for an absolute pardon hinges on compliance with waiting periods and maintaining a clean record. Securing a pardon can significantly enhance future prospects by expunging criminal records.

At Ruane Attorneys, our New London pardons lawyers are dedicated to facilitating this legal avenue for clients seeking to rebuild their lives. From initial eligibility assessments to comprehensive application support, our lawyers are committed to advocating for your best interests. Contact us now to discuss your case.