Crime & Traffic

Executive clemency is when the Governor of Illinois grants a:

• Commutation of sentence,
• Pardon,
• Expungement,
• Pardon and expungement without potential firearm privileges, or
• Pardon and expungement with restoration of potential firearm privileges to someone who was convicted of a crime.

This can help a person get a job, find housing, and get a loan, among other benefits. 

What types of crimes can be pardoned?

Any conviction in the State of Illinois is eligible for clemency, no matter what the charges were or when the conviction occurred. Historically, the longer it has been since your last conviction, the stronger chance you have of receiving clemency.

Does getting a pardon clear my criminal record?

No. Getting a pardon does not hide your conviction from public view. Anyone who views your criminal record will be able to see that you had a conviction, even though you received a pardon.

In order to remove a criminal conviction from your record, you have to ask the Governor for a pardon with permission to expunge. If the Governor gives it to you, you can then file a petition to expunge the pardoned offense.

Note: The information above only applies to clemency for state crimes in Illinois. For information on clemency for federal crimes, visit the US Pardon Attorney's website. For information on other states' crimes, visit your state government's website.