The Civil Rights Restoration Center

How do I know that I have lost my civil rights?
Florida is one of six states that automatically suspends your civil rights due to a felony conviction any where in the nation (state of federal).

Does everyone have the right to restore lost civil rights?
Florida statutes provide for the potential restoration of your rights if you are a current resident. Your properly prepared application and documents are reviewed by a special investigation by the Florida Parole Commission. In some cases a hearing is required and eventually the requisite members of the Executive Clemency Board grant your request for the restoration of your civil rights. This restoration reinstates all rights except the specific authority to own, possess or use a firearm.

What proof do I receive of the successful restoration of my civil rights?
Upon the successful conclusion of your case you will receive an official government Certificate granting the restoration by the Cabinet of the State of Florida through an Executive Order in compliance with Article IV, Section 8, of the Constitution of the State of Florida.

Do I need an attorney to file a Petition for Restoration?
Anyone can research the law and file the appropriate forms. Of course, our expertise and ongoing concentration in this area of practice has given us a time tested methodology that gives our clients the best chance of successfully getting through the maze and having their civil rights restored.

Do I need to meet with your staff in person to begin the process?
No, we understand that many of our clients have busy lives and that is why they need us to assist them. Therefore we offer in person or telephone conferences for our initial free consultation and ongoing client communications during the creation of the “Presentation Brief” and all accompanying documents. Most of the information required for the forms and supporting character letters and references can be done efficiently through email, phone or overnight mail. Initial consultations can be scheduled at your convenience (evening and weekend hours).

Does the Civil Rights Restoration Center have an attorney prepare and supervise my case?
Yes, the Civil Rights Restoration Center concept was actually envisioned by a former Florida criminal defense attorney that saw a great need for specialization in this area. All legal procedures and individual cases are reviewed by trained legal assistants that are supervised by an attorney.

Does the Civil Rights Restoration Center charge me an hourly fee for creating my petition and supporting documents?
No, we will not allow economic concerns to become an issue for those seeking the reinstatement of their civil rights. Therefore, a one- time retainer is charged. No other fee is accessed throughout the process unless attorney representation is required for a hearing. Most cases do not require a hearing and if one is needed we will provide affordable representation.

How will I know the status of my case?
Throughout the process we will provide regular status updates and you will also receive correspondence directly from the State of Florida Office of Executive Clemency.

How long does it take to successfully have my Civil Rights Restored?
The State of Florida is continuing to make strides in simplifying and expediting the steps required in the process. Unfortunately, the office handling the requests has budgetary constraints limiting the number of investigators and staff. Due to this fact it is hard to give an exact time frame. Some petitions have been completed within 6-9 months while others have taken considerably longer. For this reason it is of the utmost importance to help the government office by giving them exactly what is needed in a format that is efficient and error free.

Can you assist people with civil rights petitions in other states?
We are actively researching the procedures in other states and hope to provide assistance where it is needed. Please call us with questions.

Can your company help me with expungements, pardons or the sealing of a criminal conviction?
We can certainly point you in the right direction or refer you to one of our attorneys that can be of assistance. Please call us with any questions.