On September 9, 2025, Governor Phil Murphy announced his third major round of clemency actions, granting 40 pardons to individuals whose lives reflect extraordinary rehabilitation, accountability, and transformation. This latest announcement brings the total number of pardons and commutations under the Murphy Administration to 169 — more than any New Jersey governor in the past 30 years combined.

Among those pardoned were two clients represented by National Security Law Firm (NSLF). For privacy, we will refer to them as Grace and Michael, each of whom rebuilt their lives after decades-old convictions and demonstrated the very purpose behind New Jersey’s “State for Second Chances” initiative.

We are deeply honored to have represented them in their petitions and grateful to have played a role in these life-changing outcomes.

Two Lives Transformed: NSLF Clients “Grace” and “Michael”

“Grace” — A Journey of Recovery and Renewal

“Grace” (a pseudonym used for privacy) was convicted of multiple offenses between 1972 and 1977 — a period of her life marked by instability, substance use disorder, and the absence of meaningful support structures. For nearly half a century since those events, she has rebuilt her life with remarkable resilience.

For decades, Grace has lived with dignity, sobriety, stability, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Her petition highlighted:

  • nearly 50 years of law-abiding conduct,

  • longstanding employment history,

  • deep involvement in her family’s life,

  • continuous community engagement, and

  • a life defined not by her past, but by her transformation.

Her pardon is more than a legal act — it is a recognition that a lifetime of rehabilitation deserves full restoration of rights and dignity.

“Michael” — Nearly 20 Years of Stability After a Single Conviction

“Michael” (also a pseudonym) was convicted in 2005 of possession with intent to distribute. For two decades since, he has built a responsible, productive, and completely law-abiding life.

His petition demonstrated:

  • consistent employment,

  • strong family support,

  • stable housing,

  • community contributions,

  • and nearly 20 years of spotless conduct.

Michael’s story reflects the exact type of rehabilitation Governor Murphy’s clemency initiative seeks to recognize. His pardon allows him to move forward without the weight of a record that no longer reflects the man he has become.

Governor Murphy’s Clemency Initiative Continues to Lead the Nation

Governor Murphy’s third round of clemency grants reinforces New Jersey’s status as a national leader in second-chance justice. Through Executive Order 362, the Governor created the state’s first Clemency Advisory Board, which:

  • reviews applications,

  • considers rehabilitation and long-term good conduct,

  • includes trauma-informed categories such as domestic violence and trafficking,

  • evaluates excessive sentencing and trial penalties, and

  • incorporates the perspectives of victims and communities.

More than 4,500 clemency applications have now been submitted since the Executive Order.

As Bishop Joshua Rodriguez, Chair of the Clemency Advisory Board, said:

“Clemency is not about overlooking mistakes—it is about recognizing transformation, redemption, and the power of a second chance.”

This initiative is historic not only for its scale, but for its humanity.

What Clemency Means for Our Clients

For both Grace and Michael, a pardon represents the end of decades of being defined by past conduct — and the beginning of a future free from barriers related to employment, licensing, housing, and civic participation.

With these pardons, they can:

  • pursue new employment opportunities,

  • access educational programs and certifications,

  • apply for professional licenses,

  • seek housing free of background-check obstacles, and

  • live with dignity without the shadow of their past.

Clemency restores opportunities. But even more important, it restores identity — affirming that rehabilitation is real and worthy of recognition.

NSLF’s Role in Clemency Representation

At National Security Law Firm, we take tremendous pride in representing individuals seeking pardons, commutations, and post-conviction second-chance relief. Our work includes:

  • drafting detailed petitions that frame each client’s full life story,

  • documenting decades of rehabilitation, stability, and community support,

  • gathering letters, records, and evidence of transformation,

  • identifying factors that meet Executive Order 362 priorities,

  • and presenting each case with dignity, accuracy, and compelling advocacy.

Clemency petitions require far more than legal skill — they require care, compassion, and the ability to tell the truth of a person’s journey in a way that honors their effort and their humanity. We are grateful to fight for second chances for clients who have worked tirelessly to rebuild their lives.

A Celebration of Redemption and Hope

Governor Murphy’s continued use of clemency demonstrates moral courage, compassion, and the belief that people can and do transform their lives. The pardons granted to Grace and Michael are powerful reminders that redemption is possible — and that justice includes the opportunity to begin again.

We congratulate them both on this extraordinary milestone.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.