Connecticut Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply
Connecticut is unique in that the Board of Pardons and Paroles has independent authority to grant pardons without the Governor's involvement. This means the process is more board-driven and less political than in many other states.
Last updated: 2026-03-28. This is informational only, not legal advice.
Who Grants Pardons
Authority: Board of Pardons
The Board of Pardons and Paroles has exclusive authority to grant pardons in Connecticut. The Governor does not have pardon power — Connecticut is one of the few states where the board operates independently.
Types of Clemency Available
Full Pardon
Officially forgives the conviction. Under Connecticut law, a pardon makes the person eligible for erasure (expungement) of the record.
Commutation
Reduction of sentence.
Eligibility Requirements
Waiting period: 3 years after completion of sentence for misdemeanors; 5 years for felonies
Clean record required: Yes — Must have a clean record during the waiting period.
- Must have completed all terms of the sentence including probation
- Must demonstrate rehabilitation and good character
- Must show how a pardon would benefit you (employment, licensing, etc.)
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Submit a pardon application to the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles.
- Complete the application with conviction details, rehabilitation evidence, and personal statement.
- The Board reviews the application and schedules a hearing.
- Attend the hearing before the Board. You may bring witnesses and an attorney.
- The Board votes on whether to grant the pardon.
What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do
Gun Rights
A pardon can restore state firearm rights. A separate application to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners may also be required. Federal restrictions may still apply.
Voting Rights
Connecticut automatically restores voting rights upon release from prison (including while on parole, since 2021). A pardon is not needed for voting.
Effect on Criminal Record
A pardon makes the conviction eligible for erasure (expungement). After receiving a pardon, you can petition to have the record erased. This is a major benefit unique to Connecticut.
Employment
A pardon and subsequent erasure can dramatically improve employment prospects by removing the conviction from most background checks.
Processing Time & Likelihood
Average processing time: 3 to 6 months from application to hearing decision
Pardon rate: Relatively high — the Connecticut Board grants pardons at a meaningful rate, especially for older, non-violent offenses
Cost: Free — no filing fee
Pardon vs. Expungement in Connecticut
Connecticut has a strong connection between pardons and expungement: a pardon makes the conviction eligible for erasure. Connecticut also has automatic erasure for certain old convictions under the Clean Slate Act (2023). For offenses not covered by automatic erasure, obtaining a pardon followed by a petition for erasure is the path to clearing the record.
Official Resources
- Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles — Official Board with pardon application forms and hearing schedules
- Connecticut Legal Services — Free legal assistance for qualifying Connecticut residents
Frequently Asked Questions
Who grants pardons in Connecticut?
Does a pardon erase my record in Connecticut?
How long do I have to wait to apply for a pardon in Connecticut?
Related Connecticut Pages
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