Some rights are restored over time, such as your right to obtain a professional or trade license and to serve in a public office. To obtain these rights after probation or parole you need to qualify for a Certificate of Relief or a Certificate of Good Conduct; both are issued by the NYS Division of Parole. However, to qualify for these certificates depend on the type of crime committed and the amount of time that has passed since you were released.

If you have been convicted of a felony, you lose the right to vote. This right is either restored when you complete your maximum sentence or discharged by the Board of Parole. If you have been issued the Certificate of Relief or Good Conduct while on parole, you may register to vote.

The Legal Action Center offers a clear print guide and a brief video series on this topic.  The videos, available in English and Spanish, are listed below.

• Part 1 shares basic information about New York’s certificates of relief from disabilities and good conduct – what they are and who is eligible. (Parte 1 Provee información básica sobre los certificados de asistencia por discapacidades (certificates of relief from disabilities) o certificados de buena conducta (certificates of good conduct) del estado de Nueva York. Explica que son y quién es elegible)

• Part 2 explains how to apply for Certificates of Relief and Good Conduct, and discusses ways to strengthen your application. (Parte 2 En la Parte 2 de esta serie, explicamos cómo aplicar por Certificates of Relief and Good Conduct, y hablamos de cómo fortalecer su aplicación. Parte 1 es una descripción básica de los Certificates of Relief and Good Conduct del Estado de Nueva York y quiénes son elegibles para aplicar. Este video está disponible en inglés y español.)