Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: An act of mercy or leniency by the executive branch (Governor and Cabinet) that reduces the punishment for a crime. Florida's Board of Executive Clemency handles pardons, commutations, and restoration of civil rights.
Category: Post-Case · Statute: Article IV Section 8, FL Constitution · Source: Florida Legislature
Types of Clemency in Florida
- Full pardon — Forgives the offense and restores all civil rights
- Commutation of sentence — Reduces the sentence but doesn't erase the conviction
- Remission of fines — Waives outstanding financial penalties
- Restoration of civil rights — Restores voting, jury service, etc. without a pardon
Process
Applications go to the Florida Commission on Offender Review, which investigates and recommends action to the Board of Executive Clemency (Governor + 3 Cabinet members). The process can take years.