This Clemency Advocacy Guide is a resource for individuals who have applied for clemency from the Governor of California and ask the question, “What do I do now?”
In the guide you will find information and guidance on building an advocacy campaign in support of your clemency application. This resource will cover how to request support letters from people you know, organizations, and elected representatives; launch petitions and city/county resolutions; and engage with the media.
The material included is for informational purposes only and not to provide legal advice. We encourage attorneys to support clemency applicants pro bono (free of charge). This guide is intended to increase access to resources and freedom of incarcerated people.
Other Resources
For more information on how to apply or reapply for a commutation, the process for clemency for people “twice-convicted”, and Board of Parole Hearings interview preparation, request the California Coalition for Women Prisoners’ (CCWP) “Commutation Application Guide” by writing to California Coalition for Women Prisoners, 4400 Market Street, Oakland, CA 94608. The guide is also available online here in English and Spanish.
For information on how to apply or reapply for a pardon, request Asian Americans Advancing Justice’s “Guide to California Pardons” by writing to Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus, Attn: CJR, 55 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94111.
For more information on post-conviction relief options and immigration status, please review these resources from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.