Unlike many states, the power to pardon in Minnesota does not rest solely with the Governor, but with the Minnesota Board of Pardons. The Board of Pardons consists of three members: the Governor, the Attorney General, and the Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Each of the members has an equal vote, and votes to grant clemency must be unanimous.

A Pardon Extraordinary is a form of clemency that was created by statute and can be granted by the Board of Pardons. When a pardon extraordinary is granted, the individual is no longer required to report the conviction, except in limited circumstances. The legal effect of a Pardon Extraordinary is the vacation of the conviction. Records are not sealed, however, the fact of the Pardon Extraordinary is recorded on the criminal record.

While any citizen has the right to communicate with all government officials, and it might be tempting to take your case directly to the Board members, bear in mind that the members’ staff generally will refer such communications to the Secretary’s Office at the Department of Corrections for a response.  Therefore, sending your documents and expressing your concerns directly to the Secretary’s Office at the number listed here may actually save a step or two and you are encouraged to do so.