How to get a pardon for a felony in Florida?

How to Get a Pardon for a Felony in Florida?

In the state of Florida, getting a pardon for a felony is a lengthy and complicated process, but it’s not impossible. A pardon is a formal forgiveness and annulment of the convicted person’s crime, removing any residual effects of the conviction on their life, including their civil rights.

Who is Eligible for a Pardon?

In Florida, only convicted felons are eligible to apply for a pardon. Misdemeanants, individuals who pleaded guilty or nolo contendere to a felony without being convicted, and individuals who have not completed their sentence (including probation and/or fines) are not eligible.

Types of Felony Pardons

There are two types of felony pardons in Florida:

1. Full Pardon: This type of pardon restores the convicted person’s civil rights, including their right to vote, serve on a jury, and possess a firearm.
2. Clemency (Conditional Pardon): This type of pardon doesn’t restore all civil rights, but rather grants mercy or leniency by removing certain consequences of the conviction, such as the prohibition on voting or serving on a jury.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Pardon in Florida

To get a pardon for a felony in Florida, follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete the Necessary Time

You must wait at least 5 years from the date you completed your sentence (probation, fines, restitution, etc.) before you can apply for a pardon. Exceptions:

• If you were younger than 18 when convicted, you can apply 3 years after completing your sentence.
• If you were sentenced to life, you can apply after completing 10 years of actual time served.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect the following documents:

• Copies of court documents (sentencing order, conviction order, etc.).
• Proof of sentence completion (receipt of discharge papers, release from prison, etc.).
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.).
• Identifying documents (passport, driver’s license, etc.).
• Personal statements ( letter of support from a government official, a letter to the governor explaining your story, etc.).

Step 3: Fill Out the Application**

Obtain the **Felix Eligibility Application and Instructions** from the Clemency Office or download it from their website. Carefully review the application form and:

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* **Include all required documents** with your application.
* **Sign and date the application**.

Step 4: File Your Application

**Submit your completed application** to the:

Clemency Office
Post Office Box 1629
Tallahassee, FL 32302

Step 5: Hearings and Decision-Making Process**

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Once your application is received, it will be reviewed and scheduled for a **hearing with the Clemency Board**. You may be:

* **Required to answer questions** about your criminal history, sentence, and behavior since release.
* **Present character witnesses**, including law enforcement officials and friends or family members.

If your application is approved, you will receive a:

* **Full Pardon**, restoring your civil rights.
* **Clemency**, removing certain consequences of the conviction.

If your application is denied, you may **re-apply** after 2 years.

**Additional Information and Considerations**

• **Pardon applications can be expedited** under certain circumstances, such as compassionate release (illness) or rehabilitation (community service).
• **Felix Act exceptions** apply if you have completed your sentence, demonstrated rehabilitation, and are applying for a clemency pardon.
• **Inadmissible to the United States** even with a pardon, except in specific circumstances (border crossing, lawful permanent residency, etc.).

**Timeline and Processing Fees**

**Application processing takes approximately 12-18 months**, depending on the workload and complexity of your case.

**A non-refundable application fee** is **$37.35** for electronic submissions and **$44.90** for paper submissions.

**Conclusion**

Getting a pardon for a felony in Florida requires careful planning, preparation, and patience. By following the step-by-step guide and understanding the eligibility requirements, you can increase your chances of successful application. Remember to seek legal counsel and gather support from relevant government officials or character witnesses to strengthen your case.

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