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Four times a year, the Governor and State Cabinet listen to the stories of convicted criminals seeking the restoration of their rights or even a pardon.

Today was just such a day. In one of the few successful pleas, Jessica Chiappone a mother of three who was convicted of drug conspiracy got her rights back after an emotional plea. Jessica has graduated from law school and even with her rights realizes she has an uphill battle.

“I can apply to take the bar, so I could sit for the bar exam but I would still have to pass the bar exam and go through a rigorous character in fitness review prior to be admitted” says Jessica.

Only a few of the 80 or so cases heard today got favorable results. In each case, the Governor wants to know about drug and alcohol use and any family tensions.