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New Jersey Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

New Jersey pardons are granted by the Governor. New Jersey has one of the strongest expungement laws in the country (Clean Slate Act), making expungement the primary path for most people.

Last updated: 2026-03-28. This is informational only, not legal advice.

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Governor

The Governor of New Jersey has exclusive clemency power. The New Jersey State Parole Board may investigate applications.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Forgives the conviction and restores civil rights.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting period: Must have completed sentence. No formal statutory waiting period.

Clean record required: Yes — Must demonstrate rehabilitation and a clean record.

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence
  • Must demonstrate compelling need for a pardon

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a clemency petition to the Governor's office.
  2. Include conviction details, rehabilitation evidence, and personal statement.
  3. The Governor's office may request investigation by the State Parole Board.
  4. The Governor reviews and makes a decision.

What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do

Gun Rights

New Jersey has extremely strict gun laws. A pardon may help with gun rights restoration, but separate firearms permits are still required and may be denied.

Voting Rights

New Jersey automatically restores voting rights upon release from prison (since 2020, including parole/probation). A pardon is not needed.

Effect on Criminal Record

A pardon does not automatically expunge the record. New Jersey's Clean Slate Act provides comprehensive expungement.

Employment

A pardon can help with employment, but expungement may be more practical.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 months to several years

Pardon rate: Very low — New Jersey Governors have historically granted very few pardons

Cost: Free — no filing fee

Pardon vs. Expungement in New Jersey

New Jersey's Clean Slate Act is one of the strongest in the nation, with automatic expungement after 10 years for eligible convictions. Petition-based expungement is available earlier. Expungement is far more accessible and practical than a pardon for most New Jersey residents.

See the full New Jerseyexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I seek expungement or a pardon in New Jersey?
Expungement is almost always the better option in New Jersey. The Clean Slate Act provides automatic expungement for many offenses and petition-based expungement for others. Pardons are very rare in New Jersey.
How do I apply for a pardon in New Jersey?
Submit a clemency petition to the Governor's office. The process is informal and pardons are rare.
Does a pardon expunge my record in New Jersey?
No. A pardon and expungement are separate processes. New Jersey's Clean Slate Act provides comprehensive expungement options.

Related New Jersey Pages

Related Resources on This Site

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Pardon and clemency laws change frequently. Consult a qualified attorney in New Jersey for advice about your specific situation.
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