Pardons and Parole/Expungement
If you have been convicted of a certain crime in Connecticut, then you have a criminal record. This means that anytime someone conducts a background check, they can see that you were convicted of a crime. This can have many adverse consequences including the loss of employment opportunities. So what can you do about this record? Is it permanent or can it be erased. The following will help you clear your background.
Expungement Pardon: You may apply to the Board for expungement (erasure of the official criminal record) THREE (3) YEARS after the date of the disposition of one’s most recent misdemeanor conviction and/or FIVE (5) YEARS after the date of the disposition of one’s most recent felony conviction. Please be aware that you cannot apply for expungement for one offense and not another, as only your full criminal history will be considered for an expungement pardon.
Expungement Pardon:Provisional Pardon: A provisional pardon is for employment purposes only and does not erase your criminal history. You may apply for a provisional pardon at any time, but if you are currently under any form of criminal justice supervision you are also required to submit a
Supervising Officer Questionnaire completed by your current parole/probation officer. That form can be obtained at www.ct.gov/doc/bopp. If you are applying for expungement, you must indicate on the application that you also wish to be considered for a provisional pardon in the event your petition for expungement is denied.
This is just general information and is never a substitute for sound legal advice from a Connecticut attorney. As always, when you are charged with a crime, seek the assistance of counsel.
