Governor’s Pardon – CPC 4800

If you would like to obtain relief from  the penalties associated with a criminal conviction so that you can own  a firearm or serve on a California jury, consider applying for a California governor’s pardon. In addition, a governor’s pardon may be necessary to obtain employment or to fulfill a licensing requirement for a profession. While a governor’s pardon makes these things possible, a governor’s pardon does not erase your criminal record. A governor’s pardon merely demonstrates to society that you have made positive changes following your conviction and restores some of your rights that you lost due to your conviction. A California criminal defense lawyer will inform you that the standard for receiving a governor’s pardon is quite high, and you will only be granted a governor’s pardon if your behavior has been responsible following your conviction.  There are two  methods to obtain a governor’s pardon in California.

Certificate of Rehabilitation

The most common method of applying for a governor’s pardon is through a Certificate of Rehabilitation. The Certificate of Rehabilitation is granted by the superior court, and is forwarded to the governor’s office. The Certificate of Rehabilitation is an endorsement by the court stating that it believes you have made significant changes in your life and you have been rehabilitated. The court sends the Certificate of Rehabilitation after you complete all requirements of your conviction and you remain free from incarceration for several years following your conviction.

Direct Application

The second method to obtain a governor’s pardon is by direct application. A California criminal defense lawyer may recommend this method to you if you are ineligible to receive a certification of rehabilitation because you were convicted of a felony and no longer live in the state of California or if you are serving mandatory life parole for your crime. California Penal Code Sections 4800 through 4813 provide instructions regarding how to apply for a governor’s pardon through a direct application.

You will be asked to provide information on the application including why you are requesting a pardon and any rehabilitation you have attempted following your conviction. The state of California does not require that you submit a fee with the application. However, prior to completing and submitting an application to the Governor’s Office, a California criminal defense lawyer will inform you that you must send a Notice of Intention to Apply for a Traditional Pardon to the District Attorney’s Office in the county where you received a felony conviction. You must send this Notice at least ten days before you submit your application with the Governor’s Office.

Benefits of Hiring a California criminal defense Lawyer

The procedure to apply for a governor’s pardon in California is complicated. However, a California criminal defense lawyer like Daniel Cota can ensure that you follow the appropriate steps so that your application for a governor’s pardon has the best chance of being approved. To discuss your situation and set up a free consultation, call (800) 351-6860 today.