Voting is one of the most important rights U.S. citizens have. With the midterms around the corner and the presidential election only a couple of years away, voicing your political opinion is an important part of our democracy.
When a person is convicted of a felony in any state, not only does it result in prison time, fines and a criminal record, they may also lose the right to vote. As far as Idaho law is concerned, no individual is allowed to vote, hold civil office, or serve as a juror if he/she has been convicted of a felony and has failed to restore their citizenship rights.
Fortunately, if a convicted felon obtains a final discharge (i.e. completion of the prison term, probation, or parole), he/she is restored their full rights of citizenship, including the right to vote. The only exceptions are those convicted of treason and other certain crimes. Additionally, the right to own or possess a firearm is not restored.
Once an ex-felon completes the terms of their sentence, they can register early or on the same day of voting. Furthermore, they can cast absentee ballots.
Keep in mind, Idaho residents are only allowed to register by mail or in person with the county clerk’s office. This means no one is allowed to register online to vote.
If you have been convicted of a felony in Idaho, contact our Pocatello criminal defense attorney at May, Rammell & Wells and request a consultation today.