The pardon process begins with a lengthy application process. Before beginning the Board of Pardons and Parole recommends the applicant obtain the following documents: (1) offense reports for any arrests; (2) certified court documents for these arrests including complaints, indictments, judgments, orders of dismissals, etc; (3) an official criminal history statement from their local county sheriff; and (4) three current letters of recommendation from persons other than family members who are familiar with the applicant.
The official pardon application form is found at the Board of Pardons and Parole website. After downloading the handy form allowing an applicant to fill in information using a standard word-processing program, the person carefully completes the application using the pardon application checklist, also provided.
There are limitations to applying for executive clemency in Texas, however. The Board will not consider a full pardon requests for the following cases: treason, arrests with no conviction, deferred adjudications, early dismissals from probation, Class C misdemeanors, out-of-state felony convictions, federal convictions, or applicants who were denied a full pardon less than one year prior to the present application.
An application for a pardon in Texas can be a tricky process. If you are interested in seeking a pardon, contact a qualified Texas criminal defense lawyer to assist you in preparing the application.
118 comments:
What are options if 1)You have been told by 3 lawyers that your case is not expungable due to me being convicted of a class c misd. and pleading guilty and not finishing my deferred adj and 2) On the pardon info website, it states that Texas does not grant pardons for Class C misd. I got arrested for theft of service back in 2000 for under 50.00. The only trouble I have been in. I am going to school for pharmacy tech n then on to a pharmacy program but I do not want this on my background as I cannot find gainful employment due to that class c misd.
The lawyers are correct that you cannot get a theft conviction expunged. Further, if the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole says they don't grant pardons for class c misdemeanors, it appears you have no further options.
Hi Ive read the requirements for applying for a pardon on the Texas Board of Pardons website. I am a Network Administration student and was arrested for PCS less than 1 gram in Oct of 2004 and was given deferred adjudication but violated probation and then convicted. I was wondering if I can still apply for a pardon as I have not been in any other kind of trouble before or since.
Zeroforty: If you have been convicted, you can apply for a pardon. Thanks for posting your comment.
I was convicted of unauthorized use of a vehicle in Texas in 1996. Three years later I plead guilty to DUI in Louisiana, of which my record was sealed after completing community service, AA meetings, and paying a fine. I want to apply for a pardon of the unauthorized use of a vehicle conviction, but I'm wondering if I have to provide an arrest record of the DUI in Louisiana? Thank you.
I believe the directions for applying for the pardon will require you to provide this information. If you have any questions, contact the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole.
Hi, I have a Forgery (Felony reduced to a Misdemeanor). I was wondering what Class the Misdemeanor would be if it had been reduced? I am trying to see if I could get that pardoned or not considering? Thank you for your help
As long as your forgery case was not reduced to a class c misdemeanor, I believe you can apply for a pardon if your case resulted in a conviction.
I have a Class B Misdemeanor arrest from 2001 for posession of marijuana. I took the blame for someone else and plead guilty to it b/c they were already in legal trouble and this would have revoked their bond and sent them directly to jail. I was given a $200 fine and a suspended driver's license for 1 year b/c I was under 21. I have been told that I am ineligible for expungement and that my only course of action is a conditional pardon from the Governor's office. I have never been in legal trouble since and have gone on to graduate from college and secure a teaching license from Texas, however noone will hire me b/c of this incident. Is the information I was told about the pardon correct and if so, is this something I should attempt on my own or would I need legal assistance?
It is possible to apply for a pardon from a Texas misdemeanor conviction. Applying for such a pardon is generally more difficult than applying for a felony pardon since one must show extraordinary circumstances which would justify the misdemeanor pardon. You do not need a lawyer to help you apply for a pardon, but often a lawyer can help you prepare a "better" application than one done on your own. It's your call. :-)
Hi, I was giving a 8 year deferred adjudication probation in 1989. In 1991, I got mixed up with a friend and was giving a accessory of agg. robbery with injuries, and my probation was automatically revoked, and I was giving a 20 years sentence for this. Since 1991, I have not been involved with the law in any way, I have graduated from a technical college and now I am going for an Associates degree. Will I be able to apply for a pardon?
Thank you so much
Dear Anon: Yes, you can apply for a pardon. Your chances of success, of course, depend upon your particular situation. Please refer to the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole for further information.
my uncle he is in prison and i wonder if he apply for full pardon too or he need to do a different process
Hi, I am 17 and I was arrested for theft and since it was over $50 i assume it is a Class B misdemenor. I would like to know if i should ask for a defferment, or if i can get it expunged, or what would be my best option? Please help
Yes, your uncle can apply for a pardon. Please check the Texas Board of Pardon and Paroles website for details. Thank you for writing.
Regarding your theft charge, please consult with a qualified criminal defense lawyer who practices in the county where your case is pending. This lawyer should be able to provide advice on your best options.
Thanks for taking time to answer these questions. I have one of my own. I was arrested for PI and one other traffic-related misdemeanor in 2007 (both class C's). I asked for a payment plan at the time, which resulted in a guilty plea. Long story short, I am having much trouble passing a DHS comprehensive background check because of these two convictions. I've been advised that my only real option at having a crack at getting these to go away is a pardon. I am trying to get a job with a major airline to be a pilot, which I went to school for, and have had no other legal problems. Do I have any reasonable chances for a pardon? Do I have any other methods for getting these charges expunged and sealed? I know pardons have a low success rate, but I'm trying to gauge something tangible before I hire an attorney for naught.
Thanks for your question about applying for a Texas Pardon. Regretfully, the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole will not consider applications to pardon class c misdemeanors. It is unfortunate, unfair, but sadly the current policy. Sorry I could not help you any further.
Hi, I have a DWI conviction in May 2007, and would like to file for a pardon because I will apply for Law School next year and dont want that on my record. Will it be very hard to get the Pardon for a DWI conviction?
You can access the parole application information on the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website. You can apply for a pardon from a misdemeanor conviction, but you'll need to demonstrate exceptional hardship for the Board and governor to approve the application.
i have a class b misdemeanor and 3 different class a misdemeanors that have happened since 2009 would i be able to get a pardon
Go to the website for Texas Board of Pardons and Parole. Find the application and directions for applying for a pardon. Follow the directions, prepare the application, and submit it. From there it is up to the Board and the Governor.
I was convicted in 2009 for 3 counts of tampering with government record. I served one year in state jail. I have never been in trouble. i did not have any restiution to pay, but I still owe money to some people. i would like to repay this money. Would this increase my chance for a pardon being granted?
I am currently on probation for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. I'm also still currently in the Marines and a combat veteran. Can I get pardoned while still on probation, or even when I get off for that matter?
If you have been convicted, it is possible to apply for a pardon. Go to the website for Texas Board of Pardons and Parole. Find the application and directions for applying for a pardon. Follow the directions, prepare the application, and submit it. From there it is up to the Board and the Governor.
Paying back restitution in-full could only help any application made for a pardon.
I was covicted almost 11 years ago of POCS less than a gram after I messed up and had my deffered adj. probabtion revoked. I spent 1 year in state jail. I have been in no other trouble since. I have read numerous sites that say I am ineligible for a pardon or expungement and some that say I am can you please clarify whether or not I am eligble for either? Thank you in advance.
Hello, I was placed on Deferred Adjudication Probation for a felony theft in 2001, I successfully completed Probation in 2009 where my case was dismissed upon completion of probation, I would like to be a police officer. Is it possible to apply for a pardon to have my record expunged to apply for a police department in the state of Texas or any where for that matter?
Sam: My understanding is that even a full pardon will not make a person eligible to be a Texas Peace officer. See http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/bpp/exec_clem/exec_clem.html
Anom:
I believe you can apply for a pardon. Please check the Board website for details. http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/bpp/exec_clem/exec_clem.html
Mr. Gustitis,
I read above that cases with deferred adjudication are not considered for a pardon. My case was a state jail felony/credit card abuse/deferred adjudication. I was on probation for three years and was granted early termination upon successful completion of all the requirements. In your opinion, should I try for an expungement? I am trying to do as much research as I can before consulting with a lawyer in my county. Through the eligibility check test on record gone.com, I was inadvertently led to you. I will read the requirements on the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole, however, I would like to hear what you have to say. Thank you.
So it would seem that early termination from probation can actually be a bad thing. I was released early from felony probation. Since I cannot request a pardon, do I have any recourse to have my records sealed, expunged, anything?
In 2009 I received deferred adjudication for class a misemeanor theft. I completed that probation in a few months and received an order of nondisclosure a few months ago. I would like to visit Canada and I know the order of nondisclosure does not help gain entry and am wondering if a pardon would help? I also am wanting a pardon just to clear everything, which the order does not do. I know Texas passed an amendment allowing pardons for deferred adjudications. Is it possible for my case and worth Pershing?
In 1981 i was convicted on two felony counts of delivery of 1 ounce of marijuana. I served 18 months probation of a 5 year sentence and was released early from probation. The charges were adjudicated. I have had no furhter problems. Does the adjudication limit me from a pardon?
hello , i have a 8 year sentance of probation with defferred adj however due to the charge i ahve i have to register as a sex offender ,when can i apply and can i apply for a pardon , and if i do get one would it mean that i can get to stop regesteing after that ?
Does the full pardon restore gun rights? And would a felony possession of a firearm be a pardonable offense? Do you think that a "sob story" would be more effective in obtaining the favor of the governor?
Hi, I got a conviction for evading arrest in a motorvehicle, was sentence to 1 year deferred adjudication probation and failed to complete it, then was sentenced to 6 months state jail. Will i qualify for a pardon?
Hi, I got a conviction for evading arrest in a motorvehicle, was sentence to 1 year deferred adjudication probation and failed to complete it, then was sentenced to 6 months state jail. Will i qualify for a pardon?
I got DWI 3rd degree felony (3rd DWI I know its stupid please no lecture). Anyways...I can't find a job for this so I am moving to Russia for work. So I am trying to get early dismissal from probation. Lawyer says that my case it should be pretty easy. After all why wouldn't you want to stop a serial drunk driver from leaving the country?
How does this effect pardoning though?
-Yusupov
Do I under the guidelines correctly? Thirteen months ago, my son was sentenced to 30 days in jail and 2 years probation for a 2nd DWI. He went through rehab and has been sober for 1 year. The part I'm not sure I understand: if he released from parole early, he can't apply for a pardon? If that's the case, he should not seek early release from his parole, correct. swtrader
A person can apply for a misdemeanor pardon, it is much more difficult to get one, as the applicant must show special circumstances. Please refer to the website for the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole for more information.
You can't get released from DWI probation early. Please refer to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 42.12. If you want a pardon, please visit the website for the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole for more information.
Mr. Cummings:
You can apply for a pardon for a misdemeanor conviction, but they are much more difficult to obtain. You must show extraordinary circumstances. Please check the website for the Texas Board of Pardon and Paroles for more information.
Mai:
If you successfully completed deferred adjudication for a felony, you may be eligible to get your records sealed with a "Order of Non-Disclosure" after the 5 year waiting period. Some offenses are never eligible for non-disclosure, even if you complete deferred successfully. So, please consult with a qualified criminal defense lawyer in the area to help you.
Dear Mr. Gustitis,
In 1998 I was convicted of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. I was sentenced to 10 months state jail which i served. I joined the Army and served perfectly and was recently discharged for injuries i received while in combat. Now as i am trying to move into the civilian workforce i realize i cannot get a decent job with my disabilities as well as my State Jail felony conviction. I have put together my paperwork and application for a pardon. I have also read and been told I am more likely to become the new owner of a Unicorn before i will actually get pardoned regardless of the fact i served or have not even had as much as a speeding ticket since my childhood mistake. Can you give me an estimate on the odds of me getting pardoned. Also is there any way to ensure the governor of Texas looks at my application or circumstances. Also once I do have my pardon or clemency, can I hire legal representation to have the original court completely remove my felony from my record? Thank you.
Tommy: Your chances of obtaining a pardon are about 8% in Texas. I know that is not much of a chance, but it is better than 0% if you don't apply. You have nothing to lose by applying for a pardon, so please do so. Hiring a lawyer to "undo" the conviction is much more complicate and expensive. You could spend between 10-20k for a post-conviction investigation and get nothing out of it. But only a qualified criminal lawyer can investigate the case and give you an informed opinion about pursuing such action.
jeff hopkins county i was convicted of a felony in dec 1993 the offence happen in march of 1993 i served 3 yr probations what the best way around either sealing this record or removing it...
Jeff: You'll need to apply for a full pardon from the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole. If granted, you can then apply for an expunction to clean your record. The key point here is having your pardon application granted. Thanks for visiting.
Hello I have 5 dwi 3 of them felonies the last in 2004 I don't drink any more and served my time and finished parol two years ago. Would a attorney help me get a pardon or is it even possible?
Hello, since this was first written there have been some legislation changes allowing deferred adjudication applicants. I was sentenced to 10 years DA in 8/05 and am capable of early dismissal. However, I'm afraid if I get my DA dismissed early I will not be eligible for a pardon. Would this be the case or will different rules apply for DA?
Hi, Thank you for all of advice on your blog! I am in the exact same situation as Anonymous commented immediately above. Can you provide me with a few examples that could be deemed as exceptional hardships by the Board?
I have been convicted of 5 felonys. So embarassing to say. 3 possesions, forgery and fraudulent use of identification. All of these over 5 years ago. I am now married to a wonderful man with 2 sweet little boys. I have been working in the medical field for the past 2years, which is a miracle in itself. I feel hopeless regarding these felonys sometimes but there has got to be a way to get these felonys off my record. Am I eligible? Thanks.
Hi, i was convicted of possession of controlled substance (crack) back in 1996.I was placed on probation and violated and was sunt to prison, i was released in 1998 and have not been in trouble sence im wanting to know how can i get my back ground cleared or something. I have a new business and im trying to get bonded and insured.
I was convicted of burglary of a habitation in 2009, since then I have completed probation as well as received a BA. Is there any way to get this expunged or pardoned.
Please access the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website for information to answer your question. You will find downloadable forms and instructions on how to apply for a pardon.
Hi i got a class a misdemeaner for deadly conduct and got it deferred adjudication.. i completed my probation and now have a associates degree would i be eligible for a pardon?
You are eligible for an Order of Non-Disclosure that seals your records from public disclosure. Contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer in your area to discuss this matter.
I was convicted over 12 years ago for Possession of a Dangerous Drug. The drug in question was one half of one tablet of Viagra. No I am not joking. I could not afford decent counsel and my attorney convinced me to plead guilty. I bought it in Mexico just to see what it would do for fun. Now I have a drug conviction on my record and I look like a screw up. I did also Get a DWI which is how the pill was found, would that make it more difficult to get this pardoned? Basically my question is does other criminal records make it more difficult to receive a pardon? And how frequently are they given? An I wasting my time even trying?
The chances of obtaining a pardon in Texas are about 8% if you apply for one. If you don't apply for a pardon, your chances of obtaining one are zero. So it's up to you whether this is a waste of time, or not. I suggest going to the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website and downloading the application and the directions. Prepare the application and send it in. The worst thing they can say is "no."
My hope is that the ridiculousness of the circumstances as well as the slight humor factor will raise my chances a bit. It will certainly stand out from the other many thousands they receive. I have a relative on the City Council here and a lot of police officer friends who will write me good character records. I'm also now a licensed Paramedic and Commissioned Security Guard and PPO. Aside from good credentials and references, are there any other tips you can offer? Is telling my story in short form better than elaborating? And should I take advantage of the humorous nature of the offense by making my narrative funny or would that look like I don't take it seriously and do more harm than good? Sorry for all the questions, just wanna get it right.
How is it that my class b misdemeanor for possession of marijuana in 2007 ..with successful completion of probation ..and no trouble since , not eligible for a pardon ? in order to have it expunged apparently i must have the charge pardoned ..so am I deemed a "criminal" forever regardless of my attemps to prove myself as a normal citizen? Why is the system willing to give felons w severe cases a pardon ..and an ex pothead can't catch a break? I'm almosst near completion of my BA ..unfortunately I feel its a waste because I am unclear of the eligibility..can u help? Am I always going to be a criminal?
My dad was arrested and convicted buglary he was sent to pdison at age 16 he is now 56 and hasnt neen in any trouble since he wants to hunt wjats tbe chances of him getting his right to bear arms restored he broke into a house it wasnt agg. And noone was hurt he has no violent history wjat so ever yhanks for your time
Please access the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website, download the pardon application and directions, then have your dad make a run at a pardon. The worst thing they can say is no. Good luck!
Hello Stephen, and thank you SO much for answering questions on here. I was arrested when I was 18 for Injury to the Elderly which was reduced to a class B misdemeanor which I plead guilty to and was convicted. I was then charged with a subsequent assault-body injury-family member felony, which I plead guilty to and successfully completed 2 years of deferred probation. Long story short, I had just lost my grandpa and my oldest uncle an I were getting into several fights as I was the beneficiary and this displeased him. I am now a grad student at Texas Tech university majoring in Computer Science and have had very stable employment on campus for the past few years and haven't been in trouble with the law since(about 6 years ago). What are my chances of being pardoned in this case? Is it as true as they say that literally no one is given a pardon? I think I read that only 179 people have been pardoned in Texas by Gov. Perry. Also, I know I can't get pardoned on the deferred adj. until 10 years after the disp. I should also mention that I have SEVERAL letters of recommendation, including my uncle, my former probation officer, my fiance', the director over my place of business, and several friends and family members.
I find it pretty odd that I am posting immediately after someone who is also a student at TTU. Here is my question... I was convicted of a class B misdemeanor assault against my wife in 1995 and sentenced to 30 days time served. Since then, I have also been convicted of a DWI (1998) and a misdemeanor charge of selling an alcoholic drink to an impaired person (2008). Both of these probation terms were completed and since then I have not been in any trouble. I am currently a senior at TTU and have seriously considered applying to Law School. My chances of obtaining a decent job upon graduation look pretty slim right now. I have great grades and a ton of people who would be willing to write letters of recommendation for me. My question is, if I am denied a pardon, will I have the opportunity to continue to apply or is it a "one shot" type of deal? And do my chances increase if I do hire an attorney to handle the process for me? Thank you.
Thanks for your comment. You can apply once a calendar year for a pardon. You don't necessarily need the help of a lawyer. Check out the website for the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole and look at the "clemency" section. That information should help answer your questions.
Hi,..
Im curious if I can have any of three Misdemeanors Pardoned from my record? I have two misdemeanor class "A" burglary of a vehicle charges, and one Misdemeanor class "A" theft charge. Is there any possibility there?
There are many UPS and downs to my case in which it is a serious one. My charge was sexual assualt of a child. The child being my current fiancee whom I have 1 child with and another on the way. I recieved a 5 year deferred probation in which many of the normal stipulations were removed due to the fact that we still want tp be together. I was 21 at the time and she was 15, we are now 23 and she is 18 and still going strong. I want to be able to provide for my family and move forward with our lives but with case on my back, it really seems like it would be darn near impossible. Is there anything at all that I can do? Anything? Please let me know and thank you!
I have to say that after looking at all of these stories of people on Deferred Adjudication, I realize that the Texas justice system is severely broken. It seems as though D.A. is used as a quick and dirty way of clearing cases. My offense is a non-violent, non-involvement of another human being, and here I sit 11 years after the offense, and 3 years after early dismissal. I know that this thing will walk with me for the rest of my life. Tens of thousands of taxes paid, no other issues, ever, and I can't get away from this.
If you have successfully completed deferred adjudication, you may be eligible to have your records "sealed" under an Order of Non-Disclosure. This type of order will not remove your records, but will stop the government from releasing them into the public domain. Please consult with a criminal defense lawyer about the possibility of getting an Order of Non-Discolosure. Good Luck.
My husband was convicted of two counts of indecency in June of 2010 and was given a ten year suspended sentence of community supervision. We have been in the appeals process since the conviction and just filed a writ of cert in the us supreme court. However the court of appeals issued a mandate to invoke his community supervision which happened yesterday. I will also add that he still has had to register with the county which he has done for the past two years without fail. I was wondering if he would be eligible for a pardon as he has been registered now for two years. We are obviously looking for an innocence pardon as he maintains his innocence and all his friends and family also stand behind him. We are currently navigating the appellate process pro se. I'm sure my question may raise other questions for you and Im more than happy to clarify anything and speak to you personally. Kindest regards rainbow conti
I requested a Full Pardon from the State of Texas. I've not had any offenses since 1987. My crimes were credit card abuse, forgery, theft, and prostitution. I've lived a very productive life,and was sure they would grant it. The Board decided by majority not to recommend a full pardon so my case didn't reach the governor. I'm devastated. What can I do? and What is their reasoning?
I have two felony convictions from 1992 for Possession w/intent to deliver (2 different) controlled substance(s). I was sentenced to two 15 year sentences which ran concurrent. Served 5 and a half years of incarceration then 9 and a half years on parole.It has been over 5 years since I discharged the two 15 year sentences. In Texas, what are estimated costs associated with getting a full pardon and getting my right to bear firearms restored if I hired an attorney for guidance and assistance? In addition, what do you feel my chances are, percentage wise, to receive a full pardon and restoration of firearm rights? Last, how difficult is it to receive a presidential pardon? Note, my resume over the passed 15 years is very positive. I am a humbled family man, have owned a successful business, current owner and president of a charity for special needs individuals, and I am a fortune 500 executive. In conclusion, these felonies are 20 years old. Thanks for your time Mr. Stephen Gustitis!
Please access the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website, download the pardon application and directions, then make a run at a pardon. The worst thing they can say is no. Good luck and thank you for your comment.
I was arrested for class b misdemeanor of theft of property in Texas... I took the charge for my 15 year old daughter who was with me in a store and shoplifted $80 value. My best option I was told would be pre trial deversion. I am in my 30s and before this squeaky clean record. I thought at the time it would be in my child's best interest to take the blame and keep her out of trouble. I work for a financial institution and I'm worried that the next promotion I receive will include a background check and I will be terminated because of the arrest that just took place in September.... what are your thoughts?
My thoughts are your current arrest record may impede your professional advancement. Once you successfully complete the pre-trial diversion, consult with a local defense lawyer about obtaining an expungement of your arrest and court records. Good luck.
I have 3 forgery of a financal instrament. I had never been arrest prior to the these arrest, I was on def probation and due to not having a job (always looking for one) I could not make my probation payments and had it revoked, I did 6 months state jail, can I apply for a pardon? The only other arrest I have is for 2 tickets (couldn't pay for probation or the tickets)
Cher:
Please check the website for the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole. Click on the clemency link on the left. You'll see information and directions about applying for a pardon. I'm sure you would be able to apply for one. Thank you for your question.
I am planning to apply for a pardon but I was wondering what the letters of recommendationneed to cover.
Please follow the published directions regarding the reference letters. The letters should include information about you which might be relevant to your suitability for a pardon.
hello i was convicted of a felony in hopkins county texas back in 1993 it was for organized criminal activity/forgery by passing, art 32 21 (d) pc i receive three years strait probation i want to see about getting a pardon so i can expunge this from my record my email is malfore2@yahoo.com what do you charge for this......and what are my chances
Jeff: your chances of receiving a pardon are about 8%. The worst thing they can do is say no. So, access the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website, download the application and instructions, and file for your pardon. Good luck.
Does earning a university degree and being free from any trouble for over ten years increase my chances of getting a pardon for a misdemeanor assault DV? I'm having trouble finding a job that doesn't hold the conviction against me, thus making me less marketable.
Your accomplishments in education and staying a productive member of society will, of course, help in your effort to obtain a pardon. There are no guarantees, however, I suggest applying for the pardon since the worst that can happen is they tell you no. Good luck.
Yes, I was convicted of a felony level 2, but not a State Felony.I was given 5yrs probation and 90 days in jail,I served 35 days and was released.I paid all my fees did my comm service and never violated my probation. That was 9 yrs ago. That was my first & only arrest, nothing before & nothing after. What can I do to remove this from my record,I'm limited where I can work, mainly temp services. I will recieve my Ba in Accounting in 3 more semesters from Ga Tech. My charge was in Vidor,Texas Orange county. Please let me know who should I contact and what should I do. Thank You.
Please access the website for the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole. Click on the link for "clemency" and start your study. Good luck.
July 19, 2012 was my 10 year anniversary of completeing my deferred adjudication. I immediately applied for a full pardon. It took a full two days to gather all requested information. (and a lot of driving)I put together a stellar binder that contained EVERYTHING! I also made a table-of-contents and added dividers. I can honestly say, "I gift wrapped that sucker!" It was beautiful! With no prior anything, the blemish of a felony theft, no post probation problems, a bachelors, a masters, 3 letters of recommendation from friends (lawyer, cop, and 20 yr bff)a successful career in education and I was approved by the board today for a full pardon. I have my fingers crossed that Mr. Perry has no issues signing off on the final disposition. Just wanted to provide everyone of a scenario of success. Btw, my application was accepted in August.
Congratulations on your superb effort in applying for the pardon. We all wish you the best of luck. Thanks for the important update.
Hi I pleaded guilty to a class b misdemeanor in 2004 for theft under code 31.03(e)(2)(ai). I did this because my lawyer advised me to do do so The case would be over. However I didn't know then that this could not be taken off my record. Now I'm done with college and want to get a better job but I'm hesitant due to this on my record. Is a pardon a option on this case. I have not gotten in any trouble since then. Think you in advance for your help.
Check out many of the previous comments about accessing the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website. Good luck and thanks for your question.
Thank you, it's nice that you take the time to respond to people's question and are so helpful.
of course. :-)
Hello. I was arrested for a DWI in 2008 and got a final court decision on 2009 (first offense class b misdemeanor). I underwent the rigorous obligations of the conviction: probation, community service, breathalizer machine installed into my vehicle. Since then I have stayed far away from anymore trouble. I've focused on school and will be graduating with an associates degree in summer 2013. With that said, I have been trying to apply for employment with big companies, however, am having no luck due to the background checks. Is my conviction eligible to apply for a pardon? Not asking if it will get pardoned or not, but will it even pass the check list? Thank you for your time.
hi am very curious and ive asked my lawyer but he never answers my questions its like i just paid someone to guide me through the legal process and get charged. i have 2 dwis pending. i would to see if i do get charged once im done can i get a pardon since they will both be misdemeanors. i am a college student idk what degree to go for since i have 2 pending dwis. what do you recommend me?
Hello, I wanted to ask a question. I have two misdemeanors on my record. One in 2002, the other in 2003. The first is a class b misdemeanor theft (less than $50 ). I was given deferred ajudication and months probation. I technically completed all community services, paid fines, however on the early morning hours of my hearing to be released from probation I was arrested for possession of marijuana. The courts saw it as probation violation. I served 30 days in jail. Is there any way can apply for a full pardon???
I was convicted of a felony in 1988 for passing two counterfeit $100 bills. I received three years probation but completed in less than a year and half. Am I eligible for expungement and restoring gun rights?
If you were convicted of a felony, you must receive a pardon before you can receive an expungement. The restoration of gun rights is an entirely separate issue. Please refer to the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website.
If your lawyer is not answering your questions, I'd recommend getting a different lawyer. If you are convicted of DWI, the chances of getting a pardon are less than 8%.
in 1998 I was given 10 years deferred adjudication my girlfriend was younger than me to make a long story short my probation was revoked and I was send to the Texas Department of Corrections. I have been out for 7 years and have not gotten into any trouble I just want my life back
Hello
i was charged with a poss cs felony 2nd degree cort disp says defferd this was in 6/5/98 then on 6/4/99 went to court was convicted of a class a misdemeanor went to jail for 20 days paid fines the motion to revoke on the felony says motion to revoke denied am i still able to have the felony adjudicated since it was not changed to a guilty final pleading i have a good job and not even a speeding ticket since this i now live in florida married kids own a home thanks for your time and help
hello
i was charged with a 2nd deg felony for poss of a cs in 06/05/1998 recived defferred and 5 yrs probation well on 06/04/1999 i was charged with a class a misdemeanor which i plead guilty 20 days plus fines there was a motion to revoke but it said denied on the records will i still be able to seal the felony charge i pulled my records and it still has deferred as court disposition ihave a good job and family and a home in florida now what are my options with all this i have not even had a speeding ticket since this thanks for your time
I have been researching on how to restore my civil rights back and expunge my 2000 felony conviction in Texas. I am living in the west caost now and have not been in trouble with the law since serving my time for the POM charge. I recently received a PFEC from the DOJ stating i was eligible to possess and purchase firearms but was denied because of my out of state conviction that is in the FBI NICS database. Do I need to apply for a pardon before I can receive my right to bear arms back and have my felony expunged??
Hello, in 2006, I was with a girl who tried to rip shoplift $530 worth of stuff, she got caught, and I took the fall. Is there any way I could get a class A theft reduced to a B so I can go back into the military?
Stephen I have read all of your prior posts and I didn't seem to find anything that would be in resemblance of my case. I received a 2nd degree felony for aggravated adult with a deadly weapon in December 2008. I went to trial and received straight probation. The judge sentence the probation at 10 years (he wasn't happy with the verdict). This December I was contemplating about petitioning for an early release, however I have been studying up on the pardon requirements. I have received 2 associates and am working on my bachelor's to prepare for law school after I take my LSAT. But the board of law examiners states you must wait 5 years after probation ends to apply to study law. Would I still be able to apply for this pardon if I'm currently on probation? I'm seeking every opportunity to get away from the 5 years I have to wait to enter law school. Also if it helps, my probation officer knows I'm not a bad person just had the wrong place wrong time issue and legally he only had to see my face every 60 days.
Hello i was charged with theft under 50 a class c misd. i pleaded no contest and was released on time served 30 days in jail. Is it true that i cant get a pardon.
Whitney:
The governor rarely grants pardons on class C misdemeanors. With that said, go the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles website and learn how to apply for a pardon. The worst thing they can say is "no." Good luck.
Waiting in Limbo:
Contact a criminal defense lawyer experienced in applying for non-disclosures. You may, or may not, be eligible for one on your felon deferred. If it has been 10 years since successful discharge on your felony deferred, consider applying for a pardon. Visit the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole to learn how.
Hello.
I was convicted in 1996 at age 18 for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for which I served 5 years flat. I was released in 2001.
The case was over a girl telling me that she was raped and involved me meeting up with him in a local community collage and hitting him with a pipe.
This guy and the girl have stated that she was lying to me and that I was duped into it.
I'm a very honest and law-abiding person. What chance do I have in receiving a pardon?
Brittinay: My guess is you are not yet able to apply for a pardon. However, please consult the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website and investigate the "clemency" link. The directions there will best answer your questions. Good luck with law school! Do not allow this conviction to deter you.
If you are interested in receiving a pardon, you must apply for a pardon. The best resource you have is the website for the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. Go to this website and click on the "clemency" link to access detailed directions and forms you can download. Follow the directions, prepare your application, and submit it to the Board. Generally, people have about an 8% chance of being granted a pardon. If you don't apply, remember you have a 0% chance. Good luck.
In 2001 I pleaded guilty to attempted burglary of a building. I was given a fine and nothing else. I was wondering if I could have my case pardon.
I am looking at applying for a pardon on a felony conviction of Hindering the Apprehension. I just completed 10 years probation on this conviction. Can I file for a pardon? Or is there a waiting period? Also, I was looking at the referral letters needed for the pardon, who would you suggest I get to write these letters and can it be more than 3? I want to make sure that I have my ducks in a row. One more question, is it better to have a lawyer help me with this process?
Thank you for your time
I was given Deferred Adjudication on a State-Jail-Felony on a PCS in 1994, but violated and was convicted and put back out on regular felony probation. Am I able to still apply for a pardon as this was a SJF and not a 1st,
2nd, or 3rd degree Felony?
Thank you in advance for your response.
Jordan:
Please refer to the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website to help answer your question. Click on the "clemency" link and I believe all your questions can be answered there. Thanks for your comment.
I have a misdemeanor (theft), deferred adjudication (2009), not convicted. I believe I do not qualify for a full pardon and I am not eligible for expungement only sealing the record.
If my record is sealed and I am applying for employment as a lab technician at the University of Texas Medical Branch, will they have access to this?
Do the other types of pardons (e.g. conditional) allow you to expunge the record afterwards?
How long do they take?
With this misdemeanor, am I eligible for the other types of pardons besides the full pardon?
If the record is already sealed, can the pardon be given to me anyway?
I appreciate your service!
Charlotte:
Thanks for your question. An order of Non-disclosure seals your record from "public" viewing. That is, once the record is sealed, the government agencies who possess the record are forbidden to release it into the public. Whether a potential employer could see the sealed record depends upon what databases they have access to. I don't know which data UT has access to, so answering that part of your question is difficult. I know that a granted full pardon would make you eligible for an expungement. I do not believe a conditional pardon provides that benefit, however the Article 55 of the Code of Criminal Procedure does not indicate a "full" or "conditional" pardon as a prerequisite to expungement. Finally, check the rules on the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole website for applying for a pardon after deferred adjudication for a misdemeanor, and whether that is possible.
I got a dwi and got on the divert program I violated on my home device for takn cold meds so I know I will get kicked off the program more likely so is there any chance I can either way get this off my record or apply for this pardon somehow even though I had already been givin the divert before..
I got a dwi in aug of last year and was given to be on the divert program recently I violated on my home device for taking meds for a cold and well its a no tolerance so Iwas kicked off the program and getting straight probation is there anyway I could apply for a pardon maybe after I'm done with my probation and everything else I have to do or is that it I can't do anything at all anymore..thanks L.Ortiz
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