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Applicable Form of Executive Clemency: Commutation of Sentence

Eligibility: Any inmate may request from the Maryland Parole Commission a recommendation to the Governor that a sentence be commuted if all legal remedies are exhausted and the circumstances of the case are unusual. If the Governor denies the request, it may be resubmitted after a reasonable time determined by the Commission.

Maryland Parole Commission Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).

This Maryland Secretary of State website explains the request for publication of the pardon/commutation application process.

Application Process: No formal application for commutation of sentence is available. Inmates should send a petition letter requesting a commutation of sentence to:

Maryland Parole Commission
6776 Reisterstown Road, Suite 307
Baltimore, MD 21215-2343
Tel: (410) 585-3200
Fax: (410) 764-4355
Toll Free: 1(800) 241-5428 (does not work from all areas)
TTY: (410) 486-0677

The letter can include any information the inmate deems relevant, but should include the following:

· Name and prisoner number
· Current address
· Offense for which clemency is sought
· Date of conviction
· Reasons why a commutation of sentence should be granted

If determined eligible for consideration by the Commission, it will ask the Division of Parole and Probation to conduct an investigation that should reflect the concerns of all legitimately interested parties. This includes contact with the prosecutor, the trial judge, and the sentencing judge. The investigator will make a recommendation to the Parole Commission.

The recommendation is reviewed by the Division of Parole and Probation for accuracy and completeness, and is placed on a docket for consideration by a quorum comprised of three Commissioners. A majority of the quorum is required for any action taken on a petition. Quorum action may include referral to the full Commission. The Commission provides the Governor with a specific recommendation that reflects unanimity or majority and minority opinion.

If circumstances warrant, the Commission may require the appearance of the petitioner and the investigator for resolution of disputed information. The Commission is available for office appointments with interested parties.

In cases where no recommendation is made the petitioner is advised when reapplication is permitted. The result of any Commission action will be communicated in writing to the petitioner, his or her attorney or representative.