How do you write a commutation letter?

How do you write a commutation letter?

Dear Mr. President, Hello.My name is John Doe, and I am writing to you to respectfully request that you consider my petition for a commutation of my sentence. I was convicted of possession of heroin with the intent to distribute 13 years ago, and I am currently serving a sentence of life in prison.

What is a commutation letter?

Commutation is a reduction or elimination of a sentence. Individuals who have been convicted of a crime in California may apply to the Governor for a commutation.

How do I write a letter to the governor for clemency?

So keep the main aim of the letter in mind as you write it. Explain carefully why you feel the person you are writing the letter for should be granted mercy. Plan your clemency letter before you write. Make a list of the reasons you believe the person deserves clemency.

What is a sentence for commutation?

To “commute a sentence” is the power to substitute a sentence imposed by the judiciary for a lesser sentence. In other words, it means the power to reduce or lessen a sentence resulting from a criminal conviction. For example, a ten-year sentence may be commuted to a five-year sentence.

What is a commutation application?

People who have been convicted of a crime and are currently serving their sentence in California may apply for a commutation (reduction of sentence).

How do I write a good parole letter?

It should express genuine contrition (being sorry for what you have done) as well as tell your plans for what you want to do with your life upon your release. It should be specific but heartfelt and discuss the joy you get from new, useful activities that don’t run the risk of re-offending.

How do you prepare for a commutation?

To prepare for a commutation, mobilize support for your cause. You will need to show a tremendous outpouring of support for your release to convince your state governor (or the president, if you were convicted of a federal crime) to commute your sentence.

What are the minimum requirements for commutation of sentence?

The Board may review the petition of a prisoner for commutation of sentence if the following minimum requirements are met: (a) At least one-third (1/3) of the definite or aggre- gate prison terms; (b) At least one-half (1/2) of the minimum of indeter- minate or aggregate minimum of the indeterminate prison term.

How do I write a letter to pardon myself?

Introduce yourself.

1. State clearly and succinctly that you are writing to support the person’s application for a pardon.
2. You also should indicate that you have knowledge and understanding of the criminal conviction for which the person is seeking a pardon.

How do you request a reduction sentence?

Depending on the rules of the jurisdiction, a motion may be in writing or made orally before the court. In order to ask for a more lenient sentence, usually, a defendant’s attorney can file what is called a motion for modification of sentence. The exact phrasing of the motion title may vary by state.

How do I write a letter requesting leniency in sentencing?

A letter requesting leniency should always address the judge as “Your Honor.” The letter should be truthful and express regret for the offense, unless the defendant is maintaining their innocence of the charges. It should note the defendant’s efforts to rehabilitate themselves in chronological order.

What’s the difference between pardon and clemency?

Clemency is a general term used for the act of reducing the penalties of a crime, similar to a commutation. Also, pardons are actually considered a form of clemency. If you receive a pardon, you are always receiving clemency, but if you receive clemency, you are not always receiving a pardon.

Who has the authority to commute a sentence?

California is known for its extremely long prison sentences. However, under the California Constitution, Article VV, § 8, an inmate has the right to seek a Commutation of Sentence.

Who grants commutation of sentence?

It refers to the Commutation of Sentence, Conditional Pardon and Absolute Pardon maybe granted by the president upon recommendation of the Board.

What is the power of commutation?

Commutation. The president can commute (reduce) sentences for federal convictions, meaning the president may substitute a less severe punishment in place of the punishment originally imposed.

What is a pardon vs commutation?

Clemency applications commonly come in two forms: sentence commutations and pardons. In general, a commutation is a sentence reduction for people still serving a sentence, and a pardon provides relief from punishment and restoration of certain civic rights for people who have already served their sentence.

Can a governor overturn a parole?

The Governor’s Review of a Parole Decision The Governor may take no action and allow the decision to stand, reverse the decision (if the inmate was convicted of murder), or refer the decision to the full Board for review “en banc” and a vote at one of its monthly Executive Board meetings.