Having a criminal conviction on your record can have devastating life-long consequences. Even after serving your sentence, you may lose the right to serve on a jury, hold public office, obtain a professional license, and own a gun.
By receiving a pardon, you can be absolved from all legal consequences of the crime and conviction, thus restoring all civil rights. We previously discussed the likelihood of receiving a pardon. If you were convicted of assault and battery, DUI, or criminal domestic violence, or some other crime, you have a fighting chance to save your life.
Here’s what you should know.
Three written letters of support
An applicant must provide three written letters of support from people not related to the applicant by blood or marriage. These letters form the basis of the life story of the applicant and are an important part of the process.
Attorney Matt Bodman knows how to help you select the right people to write and advance your story tot the Pardon Board.
It's important that you fulfill the following steps:
- Provide three written letters of support, which must be signed and dated within the last six months of being submitted.
- Complete the application and be sure to provide defendant’s name, address, personal phone number, and work phone number.
- Pay a non-refundable application fee of $100 by money order or cashier’s check. The fee must be payable to the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services.
After you have followed these steps, there is a 7-9-month waiting period before attending your hearing. During this time, the board will review your letter and application, and launch an investigation.
A pardon can change your life
Having an experienced attorney on your side can maximize your chance of success. Attorney Matt Bodman has performed many pardon cases and knows how to present you in the best way to the Pardon Board. Contact Matt Bodman, P.A. today to learn more. A pardon can change your life.
