In what way do presidential pardons interact with the justice system?

Presidential pardons interact with the justice system primarily by providing the ability to absolve individuals of legal penalties. When a president grants a pardon, it effectively removes any punishment associated with a criminal conviction. This means that the individual is forgiven for their crime, which can restore rights that may have been lost due to the conviction, such as the right to vote or to hold certain public offices.

This power is rooted in Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the president the authority to grant pardons for federal offenses. Pardons are often seen as acts of mercy or justice, allowing for correction of judicial errors or consideration of rehabilitation in cases where societal views may have shifted since the time of sentencing. Thus, the impact of pardons on the justice system is significant, as they can alter the legal consequences faced by individuals and affect broader perceptions of justice and accountability.