Best Federal Lawyer Michael Leonard on ABC News Channel 7 discussing January 6 pardons. Mr. Leonard appeared on ABC News Chicago Channel 7 on Monday January 6, 2025 to discuss the expected upcoming pardons to be granted by President Trump. He was interviewed by Liz Nagy of Channel 7 in light of his representation of one of those defendants, who is now detained, who would like such a pardon.
Mr. Leonard explained how his client is an excellent candidate for a pardon in light of, among other things, his complete lack of criminal history; his decades long history of gainful employment; and his significant contributions to his community,
On January 20, 2025, his first day back in office, President Trump acted on that expectation, signing a proclamation granting clemency to nearly all January 6 defendants. According to the Department of Justice, approximately 1,583 individuals had been federally charged in connection with the Capitol attack, and Trump pardoned all but 14 of them; those 14, primarily members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers convicted of seditious conspiracy, received commutations of their sentences rather than full pardons. Notably, about 81 percent of those pardoned had already pleaded guilty to or been convicted of federal charges prior to receiving clemency. Under Article II of the U.S. Constitution, the presidential pardon power extends only to federal offenses, not state crimes or civil liability, meaning pardoned individuals could still face potential exposure under applicable state laws.
Here is the link to the piece from Channel 7 news Chicago. Alternatively, you can go to the ABC 7 news website.
Matthew Chivari
Leonard Trial Lawyers
January 7, 2025
