Who has the power to grant pardons in Missouri?

In Missouri, the power to grant pardons is vested in the Governor. This authority is specified in the Missouri Constitution, which empowers the Governor to exercise clemency for individuals convicted of crimes. The Governor can issue pardons to forgive offenses and restore civil rights, reflecting an act of mercy or recognition of rehabilitation.

This process allows for a check on the criminal justice system by providing a means for individuals to seek forgiveness for past convictions. The Governor may consider recommendations from various sources, including the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole, but ultimately, it is the Governor who makes the final decision on granting a pardon. This power serves as a significant tool for addressing justice and mitigating the impact of certain criminal convictions on individuals’ lives.

The other entities mentioned do not possess this specific power: the Legislature creates laws and frameworks for governance, the Attorney General serves as the chief legal officer and does not have pardon powers, and the Courts are responsible for adjudicating cases and upholding laws rather than granting clemency.