Who is Eligible to Apply for a Pardon in Pennsylvania?

If you have a criminal conviction in Pennsylvania, a pardon can offer a better path forward, clearing the way for jobs, housing, and, as of 2024, automatic expungement of your record. In Pennsylvania, anyone convicted of a criminal offense is eligible to apply for a pardon. Since Pennsylvania law doesn’t dictate a minimum threshold after completion of your sentence, an application can technically be filed at any time. If you are interested in learning more about the pardon application process, do not hesitate to contact our Lancaster pardons and expungement attorney.

Timing Matters

While there’s no hard legal waiting period, the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons generally wants to see a meaningful period that has passed since the completion of your sentence and the application. For minor offenses, this is generally cited as around five years after completing a sentence, including probation or parole, while 10 years is the recommended period of rehabilitation for more serious crimes. A clean record during that window matters, too, as a new conviction typically resets the clock.

Expedited Review Process or “Fast Track”

As of 2025, Pennsylvania introduced an expedited review process for certain older, non-violent convictions. If your application qualifies, the Board will consider it for this faster track automatically, as you don’t need to request it separately. Homicide, assault, or sexual offenses, unlawful possession or use of firearms, and offenses involving minors (among others) will be disqualified from expedited review.

Stages of a Pardon Application

A pardon application isn’t decided by one person or office. Rather, it involves two stages:

• The Board of Pardons reviews the application, may hold a public hearing, and votes on whether to recommend it.
• The Governor has the final say. Even with a Board recommendation, the Governor exercises independent judgment on every case.

The Bottom Line

If you have a Pennsylvania conviction, you’re eligible to apply for a pardon. What determines your actual chances is how much time has passed since the completion of your sentence, the nature of the offense, your record since the conviction, and how well you can demonstrate rehabilitation. It’s a slow process, often taking years, but for many people, it’s the only route to fully clearing a criminal record before age 70.

Legal Guidance Makes All The Difference

Although you are not required to retain legal representation to get a pardon, your chances of getting a pardon will improve if an attorney assists you. A lawyer can help you file the application, including gathering documentation related to your criminal history and conviction. The entire process can take several years, and there’s no fixed deadline once a case reaches the Governor’s desk.

Ensuring that the necessary paperwork is filed is only half the battle, with a parole auditor or agent from the Department of Corrections conducting an interview, over the phone or sometimes in person. At the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh, we will discuss what questions you should expect and how to best answer them to remain consistent with your application statements. Putting the best foot forward will allow your application to stand out and increase your chance of success.

Interested in Restoring Your Rights? Speak with Our Lancaster Pardons & Expungement Attorney

A pardon can be the difference between carrying a conviction for life and finally moving past it. If you’re considering applying, don’t navigate the process alone; contact our Lancaster pardons and expungement lawyer. To discuss your options and begin building the strongest application, contact the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh online or by phone at (717) 208-4599.