clemency petitions

A clemency petition is a formal request submitted to a government authority, often a governor or the president, asking for mercy or a reduction of a person’s criminal punishment. It may include requests for commutation (reducing a sentence), pardon (forgiving the crime), or reprieve (delaying punishment). Petitions typically provide reasons for leniency, such as good behavior, remorse, or new evidence. They serve as a last resort for individuals seeking relief from harsh or unfair sentences, emphasizing the possibility of mercy and reformation within the justice system.