Benefits of a Pardon
A pardon is an official sign of forgiveness for past criminal convictions. They help those who have made mistakes in their past but have moved forward as productive members of society. Many incarcerated men and women went to prison with unaddressed trauma and little help. Second chances allow these individuals to turn their lives around, and with the right tools, many incarcerated men and women can do so. A pardon is the start of a whole new life for many individuals with criminal records. Although the pardoning process can be lengthy, the benefits of receiving a pardon are numerous. Here is an overview of the benefits of a pardon:
Restoration of Rights
Individuals convicted of a felony lose many rights, such as voting, serving on a jury, holding public office, owning a gun, receiving a passport, renewing professional licenses, and more. A pardon restores these rights and helps individuals regain a second chance at becoming an integral part of their community and society by officially recognizing that a person has worked hard to become a law-abiding citizen.
More Opportunities for Work
Convicted felons may face difficulties finding employment after incarceration. Both federal and State laws prohibit them from working and obtaining licensure in specific industries. Pardons offer the official forgiveness needed for individuals to work in fields that are otherwise off-limits to them. Such areas include the medical field, real estate, plumbing, police force, government, and childcare. Without solid employment in a career that pays a living wage, recidivism is more likely to occur.
Gaining Freedom, Losing Stigma
Freedom is still limited, even after incarceration for many people. After conviction, it becomes harder to travel abroad, start a company, or even obtain custody of children. The conviction(s) is no longer public information when a pardon is granted. While the stigma associated with a conviction is hard to erase, pardons offer the official forgiveness needed to wipe the slate clean. A pardon is giving a now law-abiding citizen a second chance.
