Individuals who have been convicted of a crime in California may apply to the Governor for a pardon. A gubernatorial pardon may be granted to individuals who have lived productive lives and demonstrated exemplary behavior following their conviction. Pardons are not granted unless they are earned.The individuals granted pardons today all completed their sentences and have all been released from prison for at least 10 years. All applicants for a pardon who were eligible obtained a Certificate of Rehabilitation, which is an order from a superior court declaring that a person convicted of a crime is now rehabilitated. Additionally, the individuals granted pardons have not had any criminal convictions within the last 10 years.
When a pardon is granted, the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are notified so that they may update their records on the applicant. The pardon is filed with the Secretary of State and the Legislature, and it is a public record.
Copies of all 83 gubernatorial pardons can be found here. Additional information on pardons can be found here.
