Clemency and Related Issues
Sometimes it's not an acquittal, appeal, or writ that gets a defendant a favorable result. Sometimes it's a process that goes beyond matters of guilt and innocence. Look below for information on these kinds of processes, where those who've been convicted receive some kind of leniency.
-
A pardon exempts someone from punishment for a crime. The pardoning power is an inherent right of the people, and they can vest that power in whomever they choose.
-
Commutation is a form of clemency [LINK] that reduces the punishment for a crime. It usually takes the form of a reduced (“commuted”) prison term, but can also reduce court-ordered fines.
-
A pardon, also called a grant of clemency, is an order by the chief executive that releases the convicted person from prison, from other penalties from a conviction, or both.
-
A reprieve is a form of clemency [LINK] that temporarily postpones a court-imposed punishment.
-
Clemency is a type of non-judicial remedy designed to reduce punishment and prevent miscarriages of justice.
-
Amnesty is a rare form of clemency that provides immunity from prosecution to a group or class of people. Amnesty is usually confined to political offenses and crimes against the sovereignty of the State, and often involves crimes committed during wars or rebellions. It’s designed to forgive those
Talk to a Defense attorney
We've helped 95 clients find attorneys today.
How It Works
- Briefly tell us about your case
- Provide your contact information
- Choose attorneys to contact you