Legal Definitions - clemency

Definition: Clemency is the power of the President of the United States or a state governor to pardon a criminal or to commute a sentence. The term itself means "leniency" or "mercy." For example, if someone is sentenced to life in prison, the governor may use their power of clemency to reduce the sentence to 20 years.

Clemency is a way for the government to show mercy to those who have been convicted of a crime. It allows for sentences to be reduced or even eliminated in certain cases. This power is often used in cases where the punishment may be too severe or where there are extenuating circumstances that warrant a second chance.