Victims, if we have their current address, will be notified 30 days prior to the hearing date. Victims have the right to attend the hearing, if they so desire, and present testimony to the Paroles and Pardons Board. Victims may also voice their opposition to a pardon by submitting letters or petitions. Pardon Hearings are conducted at the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services at 2221 Devine Street, Columbia, South Carolina. Victims wait in a separate waiting area from the offenders, and present their testimony to the Board after the offender has left the hearing room.
Every effort is made to ensure that there is no contact between the victim and the offender.
The Board will allow up to five victims and witnesses to appear regarding an offender's request for pardon. Limitations or exceptions to this guideline will be considered on an individual basis. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by Victim Services staff, who will explain the hearing process to you and answer any questions you may have. The hearings are public hearings by law so please be aware that an audiotape is being made of each hearing. Once you enter the hearing room, the Parole Board Chairman will ask you to state your name for the record.