CLS offers assistance with each step of the pardon process:
- Requesting an application
- Gathering application materials
- Submitting the application
- Preparing for interviews with the Board of Pardons
CLS offers assistance with each step of the pardon process:
Before you call or visit CLS, please gather any documentation you have related to your case. CLS can look up your criminal record.
Community Legal Services
Center City Office
1424 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia PA 19102
Mondays and Wednesdays 9am-12pm
North Philadelphia Office
1410 W. Erie Ave (Broad and Erie)
Philadelphia PA 19140
Mondays and Wednesdays 8:30am-11:30am
Community Legal Services
215-981-3700
Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9am-12pm
Generally, the only way to remove a felony or misdemeanor conviction from your record in Pennsylvania is by receiving a pardon from the Governor. These convictions cannot be expunged by a court, unless you are over 70 years old and meet other conditions. You should consider applying for a pardon if your conviction is causing employment difficulties. The pardon process is long and you are not guaranteed to receive a pardon. Generally, the Governor is willing to grant pardons for minor offenses. Additionally, the longer that you have stayed out of trouble, the better chance you have.
In order to apply for a pardon, you must request an application first. After receiving the application, you will need to gather several pieces of information and write a several essays describing your conviction, the circumstances surrounding it, and why you are requesting a pardon. After submitting your application, you will have to wait three to four years before a decision is made. During that time, representatives from the Board of Pardons may interview you at different times.