If you’ve been convicted of a federal crime, you know how long the consequences can follow you—years after your sentence ends. But there’s one extraordinary option still available to you: a Presidential Pardon.
A pardon is a unique power granted by the U.S. Constitution that allows the President to forgive a federal offense. It won’t erase your conviction, but it can restore your rights, open doors, and help you truly move forward.
Here’s what you need to know, from someone who’s worked with hundreds of federal crimean clients.
What Is a Presidential Pardon?
A Presidential Pardon is official forgiveness. It doesn’t say you were innocent—it says you’ve accepted responsibility and made the effort to turn your life around. Importantly, it only applies to federal crimes. If your conviction is in state court, you’ll need to pursue clemency through your state’s governor or equivalent authority.
What Can a Pardon Actually Do?
Plenty. While it won’t wipe your record clean, a pardon can:
Restore your civil rights—like voting, owning a firearm, or serving on a jury
Improve your chances of getting hired or licensed in your field
Show the world (and future employers) that you’ve taken responsibility and moved on
Offer peace of mind and closure after years of stigmaÂ
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a pardon can be—not just legally, but personally and professionally.
Who Can Apply?
Anyone convicted of a federal offense is eligible—but you’ll need to wait at least five years after completing your sentence, including supervised release.
The strongest applications come from people who can show:
Consistent good conduct since their conviction
Genuine rehabilitation
Positive contributions to family, work, or community life
If that sounds like you, it might be time to take the next step.
How to ApplyÂ
The process isn’t quick, but it’s fairly straightforward. Here’s what it looks like.Â
1. Get the Application
Visit the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of the Pardon Attorney website to download the current application.Â
2. Tell Your Story
This is the heart of your petition. Be honest. Explain what happened, what you’ve learned, and how your life has changed. You’re not expected to be perfect—but you need to be real.
3. Add Supporting Letters
Strong letters from employers, faith leaders, mentors, or loved ones can make a big difference. These letters show the impact you’ve made on others and help reinforce your case.
4. Mail It In
Once everything is complete, send your packet to the Office of the Pardon Attorney in Washington, D.C.Â
What Happens After You Apply?
This part takes time—sometimes years. The Office of the Pardon Attorney will:
Review your materials and run a thorough background check
Possibly request additional documentation or clarification
Make a recommendation to the President, who ultimately decidesÂ
There’s no guarantee. And if your request is denied, there’s no formal appeal—but you can reapply later. I always tell my clients: don’t let one “no” stop you. Timing and persistence matter.
Final Thoughts
Presidential Pardons are rare—but they’re real. And for the right person, at the right time, they can be life-changing.
If you’ve served your time, made changes, and want to reclaim your future, it’s worth exploring. But don’t try to navigate it alone. A lawyer who knows the clemency process—and knows how to tell your story the right way—can give you the best chance possible.
I’ve worked on hundreds of federal cases, from appeals to post-conviction relief to clemency. Every case is personal, and every story matters. If you’re thinking about applying, let’s talk about your options.
About the Author
Jeremy Gordon is a federal defense attorney with Guest and Gray. He’s been practicing federal criminal appeals and post-conviction law since 2012 and has helped secure hundreds of years off for federal inmates. His work includes commutations, compassionate release, and federal clemency matters.