Criminal Defense
Wisconsin Pardon & Commutation Lawyers
A Pardon Can Restore Your Rights.
A Pardon Can Restore Your Rights.
A pardon is an act of executive clemency that, in Wisconsin, is granted by the Governor. It can restore important rights and formally forgive a past felony conviction, opening doors that a conviction has kept closed for years. A commutation, also granted by the Governor, can shorten your sentence. A strong application for a pardon or commutation requires careful preparation, persuasive advocacy, and a clear demonstration of rehabilitation and good character.
At Strang Bradley, we prepare and present pardon and commutation applications for clients across Wisconsin. We help you put your best case forward to the Pardon Advisory Board and the Governor.
Who Is Eligible for a Wisconsin Pardon or Commutation?
The Governor sets the rules. Call an attorney to determine whether you may be eligible.
What a Pardon Does
A pardon is an act of forgiveness that can restore civil rights lost because of a felony conviction — such as the right to serve on a jury, hold certain public offices, and, in many cases, possess a firearm — and it can help with employment, licensing, and reputation. In Wisconsin, however, a pardon does not erase or expunge the conviction from your record; the conviction remains, but it is officially forgiven. Understanding this distinction is important when deciding whether a pardon, expungement, or another remedy best fits your goals.
How We Help With Pardon Applications
- Confirming your eligibility under current Wisconsin rules
- Preparing a thorough, persuasive application and supporting materials
- Helping you gather references, evidence of rehabilitation, and a compelling personal statement
- Preparing you for any hearing before the Pardon Advisory Board
- Advocating for a favorable recommendation to the Governor
What to Know Before You Apply
- Eligibility depends on completing your full sentence and the five-year waiting period.
- A strong application is detailed, honest, and focused on rehabilitation.
- The process involves review by the Pardon Advisory Board and a final decision by the Governor.
- A pardon forgives but does not erase the conviction in Wisconsin.
- Thoughtful preparation makes a meaningful difference in the outcome.
Why Choose Strang Bradley for Your Pardon or Commutation
A pardon or commutation application is your chance to show who you have become since your conviction, and presentation matters. Our attorneys help you build a complete, persuasive case — confirming eligibility, assembling the right evidence, and preparing you for the process. We help clients pursue the fresh start and restored rights that a pardon can provide.
Our Team
Strang Bradley’s Criminal Defense Lawyers
Answers
Pardon & Clemency FAQs
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Am I eligible for a pardon or commutation in Wisconsin?
The governor sets and can change the eligibility requirements. Being eligible does not mean that the governor will ultimately pardon you or commute your sentence. Contact an attorney to learn the current requirements and whether you're a good candidate to petition for a pardon or commutation.
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Does a pardon erase my conviction?
No. In Wisconsin, a pardon forgives the conviction and can restore rights, but it does not expunge the conviction from your record.
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Can a pardon restore my gun rights?
A pardon can restore civil rights affected by a felony conviction, which in many cases includes firearm rights, though federal law and other factors can be involved.
Interested in petitioning for a Pardon or Commutation? Talk to us first.
Consultations are confidential. The sooner we are involved, the more we can do to protect your rights and your future.
