What is Recall of Pardon? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

The recall of pardon refers to the process of revoking or canceling a pardon that has been granted but not yet accepted. This action is typically carried out by the official or governing body that issued the pardon. A pardon is a legal forgiveness for a crime, and its recall indicates that the individual will not receive the benefits associated with it.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A governor grants a pardon to a person convicted of a non-violent crime. Before the individual accepts the pardon, the governor receives new information about the case and decides to recall the pardon, thereby preventing the individual from benefiting from it.

Example 2: A state board issues a pardon to a former inmate. However, after further review, the board realizes that the individual has committed additional offenses. The board then recalls the pardon prior to its acceptance. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Pardon Recall Process
California The governor has the authority to recall a pardon at any time before acceptance.
Texas Pardons can be recalled by the Board of Pardons and Paroles before the individual accepts it.
New York The Board of Parole can revoke a pardon if new evidence arises before acceptance.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Pardon A legal forgiveness for a crime, which restores rights lost due to conviction.
Commutation A reduction of a criminal sentence, which does not erase the conviction.
Recall of pardon The revocation of a pardon before it is accepted, preventing the individual from benefiting from it.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are facing a recall of pardon situation, consider the following steps:

  • Stay informed about the status of your pardon and any communications from the granting authority.
  • Consult with a legal professional who can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.
  • Explore resources like US Legal Forms for templates and forms that may assist you in the process.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Authority Typically the governor or designated board
Process Revocation must occur before acceptance of the pardon
Common Use Criminal law contexts

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

No, once a pardon is accepted, it cannot be recalled.