How Can I Get a Pardon in Tennessee?
In December of 2023, Governor Bill Lee issued 22 pardons. These pardons gave past offenders the chance to start over.
The governor of Tennessee has the power to pardon anyone convicted of a crime. To be eligible for a pardon, an applicant must have completed his or her prison sentence and any community supervision and then wait at least five years with no new convictions.
Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of being pardoned and what is required to be granted a pardon in Davidson County, Tennessee.
What is a Pardon?
A pardon is a forgiveness for committing a crime. Bestowed by the governor, a pardon can result in a conviction being expunged from your record for many nonviolent offenses.
The governor is given the right to pardon individuals through the Tennessee Constitution Article 3, Section 6, which reads that the governor “shall have the power to grant reprieves and pardons, after conviction, except in cases of impeachment.”
Since criminal convictions cause past offenders to lose civil rights, a pardon can restore the right to vote and the right to carry a firearm, among others. However, if you have been pardoned, the state of Tennessee requires that you show your proof of pardon (i.e., court order) before you will be allowed into a voting booth.
How to Qualify for a Pardon
To be pardoned, you must meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate exemplary citizenship
- Have completed your prison sentence and not had any convictions within the past five years, and
- Have a “compelling reason” to seek a pardon.
The Tennessee Board of Parole makes non-binding recommendations on who should be granted a pardon. The Parole Board will review the individual’s application before sending them to the governor.
Are There Other Types of Clemency?
In accordance with Tennessee law, the governor is allowed to grant four types of clemency (including a pardon) which impact a person’s sentence or resulting consequences in different ways.
The four types of clemency in Tennessee are:
- Pardon: As discussed, an official statement of forgiveness that can only be granted once a person has completed their time in prison
- Commutation to time served: A reduction in time served, which can apply to any sentence, including incarceration, parole, or probation
- Commutation to parole eligibility: A decision to expedite parole eligibility, with a final decision being made by the Board of Parole
- Exoneration: The act of resolving someone from blame, reversing a criminal conviction
How Do I Know If I Am Eligible for a Pardon?
The Davidson County pardon attorneys at Raybin & Weissman understand the pardon process in Tennessee. We can advise you regarding your ability to get a pardon based on the circumstances in your specific situation.
Contact our Davidson County, TN, Pardon Attorneys Today
There are not many opportunities in life to have a “do-over.” A pardon is just that: a chance to wipe your slate clean and make amends for any past regressions. If you believe that you may be a candidate for a pardon, do not hesitate to reach out to our legal team today. Contact us online or by calling 615-256-6666 to schedule your complimentary consultation to learn more.