Pennsylvania Pardons

In theory, anyone convicted of a crime in Pennsylvania is eligible for a pardon from the governor. In practice, however, a governor's pardon requires the applicant to understand and balance the factors considered by the Board. At our Central Pennsylvania law firm, Curcillo Law, our principal criminal lawyer helps people go through the pardon process.

Why obtain a pardon? Common reasons include the need to coach youth sports, become a teacher, obtain a professional license, be a police officer or even get a hunting license. A criminal conviction can affect a person's ability to do any of these things. And because Pennsylvania law does not allow a person with a misdemeanor or felony criminal conviction to obtain an expungement directly, a pardon is the only option for repairing a criminal record.

At our law firm, our criminal defense lawyer has successfully helped people obtain pardons. We help individuals prepare for their appearance before the Pardons Board. This involves demonstrating the reasons the pardon is needed, the degree to which the person's life has changed, and the consequences to the person and his or her family if the board does not recommend the pardon.

We have helped people convicted of offenses such as these obtain pardons:

• Resisting arrest
• Drug possession
• Welfare fraud
• Shoplifting
• Disorderly conduct

The Pardon Process

For pardon applications, the board weighs criteria such as the amount of time that has passed since your conviction, your record of compliance with court orders, positive changes in your life, the need for the pardon and the potential impact of a pardon on your victim. To answer some of these questions, the board may order an investigation and schedule a hearing. Of course, our lawyer will accompany you to the hearing. After the board has obtained all the information it needs, it will make a recommendation to the governor. He or she will either grant or reject the board's recommendation.

Contacting Our Law Offices

To discuss your circumstances with an experienced criminal defense attorney, call our Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, law offices 717-651-9100 or contact us via email today.