What is a Presidential Pardon?

A Presidential Pardon is a specific constitutional power granted to the President of the United States that allows the President to forgive an individual for committing a federal crime. This act absolves the individual of legal consequences associated with the conviction, which may include the removal of penalties, restoration of rights, and relief from further punishment.

The Constitution, specifically Article II, Section 2, gives the President the authority to grant pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. This power is significant as it serves as a check on the judicial system and reflects the President’s ability to show mercy or correct potential injustices in the legal process.

This process does not involve a judicial review or a statement of decisions, nor does it simply suspend penalties temporarily, which distinguishes it from other legal and executive functions. Instead, it results in a full clearing of the individual’s criminal record for the federal crime in question, demonstrating the substantial nature of the pardon power.