January 4th, 2023

Attorney Robert M. Campbell Achieves Pardon Recommendation – PA Pardon Process

On December 15, 2022, Criminal Defense Attorney Bob Campbell was able to achieve a pardon recommendation to the Governor for a felony drug charge. These kinds of pardons are difficult to obtain. An applicant has to apply to the Governor’s office through the completion of a burdensome application, it must be voted on to be given a hearing, and then, following a hearing, voted on whether the pardon is recommended to the Governor. Lt. Governor John Fetterman was on the Board to vote on Attorney Campbell’s hearing, and amongst the other members of the Board of Pardons, recommended the pardon be granted.

Some statistics of pardons granted by PA Governors since 1999 can be found at https://www.bop.pa.gov/Statistics/Pages/Statistics-by-Year.aspx

The Pennsylvania Pardon Process

The Pennsylvania pardon process is an important part of the criminal justice system. It allows individuals who have been convicted of a crime to have their records cleared and their rights restored. The process is a long and complicated one, but it is possible to get a pardon in Pennsylvania if you meet certain criteria.

The Pennsylvania Board of Pardons is responsible for reviewing requests for pardons. The Board is comprised of five members, including the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Attorney General, and two citizens appointed by the Governor. The Board meets quarterly to review applications and make decisions.

The first step in the Pennsylvania pardon process is to submit an application to the Board. You will need to provide information about your criminal record, including the date of the conviction, the crime of which you were convicted, and any other relevant information. You will also need to provide a statement of why you believe you should be pardoned.

After you have submitted your application, the Board will review it and make a decision. If your application is approved, you will receive a notice in the mail. This notice will include the details of your pardon, including the date it was granted and the conditions of the pardon.

Once you receive your pardon, you will need to take certain steps to ensure that your rights are restored. This includes registering with the Pennsylvania State Police, notifying the court of your pardon, and obtaining a copy of your criminal record.

As stated above, the Pennsylvania pardon process is a long and complicated, but it is possible to get a pardon if you meet certain criteria. If you have been convicted of a crime and believe you deserve a second chance, you should consider applying for a pardon.


Attorney Robert M. Campbell is a seasoned up and coming Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in the Lehigh Valley. He uses his skills and knowledge of the legal system  to serve his clients with the highest level of dedication and professionalism.

The content found in this resource is for informational reference use only and is not considered legal advice. Laws at all levels of government change frequently and the information found here may be or become outdated. It is recommended to consult your attorney for the most up-to-date information regarding current laws and legal matters.