This session will explore the avenues of executive clemency – both state and federal processes – as alternative avenues to freedom, correcting an excessive sentence, or formally seeking forgiveness for a past conviction. The speakers will address 1) the state and federal commutation processes, 2) the pardon process and eligibility consideration, 3) the steps necessary to prepare a petition and re-entry plan, and 4) working with the client on how to effectively discuss their case. They will explore different considerations when the claim is based on excessive punishment or when innocence is at issue, and will offer insight on putting together a case for commutation when innocence is at issue and when it is not. There will also be a group discussion on what we can do collectively to educate and empower members on the clemency board and governors to get to know our clients and to understand that innocence claims require different standards of consideration than other clemency cases.