The State of Wisconsin offers only executive clemency, and there are rules for eligibility; A pardon is only available for relief from a felony conviction, but not a misdemeanor conviction. Anyone who is incarcerated or on probation or parole is not eligible to apply.
There is a five year waiting period after the sentence is fully completed before an application can be filed. In Wisconsin, a pardon is the only way to regain the right to hold public office, obtain various licenses, and restore the right to possess firearms.
The Pardon Advisory Board processes all applications. After an application is received by the Board, the applicant will be notified of the time and date of their hearing before the Board. After a hearing is held, the Board makes a recommendation to the Governor, who then makes a final decision on the application.
The Governor’s decision is sent to the applicant by mail. If the application is denied, there is an eighteen-month waiting period before the applicant is eligible to apply again.