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Maryland
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.
Every effort has been made to make this information accurate and up-to-date.
Errors are inevitable and changes occur frequently. We would appreciate
learning of any errors or inaccuracies regarding any information on this
Webpage as soon as possible. Please write to info@cjpf.org
Last Updated: 09.22.03