Commutations are extraordinary and very rarely granted. But FAMM has put together resources to help our members who are interested in filing a commutation petition. You do not necessarily need an attorney to file a commutation petition. You can write your own petition and have family members and friends help you raise support for your early release. However, there is no guarantee that you will receive a commutation, even if you follow these suggestions and raise support for your case.
Disclaimer: FAMM is not a legal services provider and we do not provide representation to individuals filing applications for commutations. nor should the information provided be relied on as legal advice. If you feel you need legal help, contact a lawyer. FAMM also cannot refer you to a clemency attorney; write a support letter to the president, pardon attorney, governor, parole/pardon board, prosecutor, or judge in support of you or your loved one’s commutation application; or sign an online or written petition in support of you or your loved one’s commutation application.
FAMM COMMUTATION RESOURCES
Download FAMM's answers to frequently asked questions about clemency and our guide to filing a federal commutation request.
Read our FAQs about clemency
Read our guide to filing a federal commutation request
FEDERAL COMMUTATION APPLICATION FORMS & RULES
Office of the Pardon Attorney
Federal Commutation Application Forms
Federal Clemency Regulations
Standards for Consideration of Federal Clemency Applications
Federal Clemency Statistics
If you or your loved one have filed a commutation application and want to check on its status at the Office of the Pardon Attorney, you should call (202) 616-6070. The Office of the Pardon Attorney will be able to tell you whether the application is still pending or has been denied, but will not be able to give you any additional details about the status of an application.