The phrase "a commutation of a" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to the act of substituting one thing for another, often in relation to sentences or penalties.
Example: "The judge granted a commutation of a life sentence to a term of 20 years."
Alternatives: "a substitution of a" or "a replacement of a".
Originally, an amercement represented a commutation of a sentence that required the forfeiture of goods, while a fine was an arrangement agreed upon between the judge and the prisoner to avoid imprisonment.
Mr. Libby, known as Scooter, has been at the top of the speculative lists that accompany the holiday season, especially in the last year of a presidency, of who might receive a White House gift of clemency, which can take the form of an outright pardon or a commutation of a sentence.
In addition to his expected appeal, his supporters are also likely to explore the possibility of obtaining a pardon, or some form of executive clemency like a commutation of any sentence, from President Bush, a fellow Republican, before he leaves office.
The judge, a former prosecutor, has written a letter toPresident Obamasupporting a commutation of the sentence, and praising Mr. Walker's record as a model prisoner.
Many of them said yesterday that the disclosure that Mrs. Clinton's brother Hugh Rodham received nearly $400,000 for helping secure a presidential pardon and a commutation of sentence was the last straw.
Margaret C. Love, the former pardon attorney in the Justice Department, a nonpartisan post, and an authority on the pardon power, said it would have been customary in such a circumstance to provide a commutation of sentence.
All eyes are on the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, the tiny state agency whose members are scheduled to vote by phone or fax by noon today on whether to approve Mr. Graham's application for a full or conditional pardon, a 120-day reprieve to permit a hearing, or a commutation of the sentence.
In the last few days Mr. Graham's current lawyers have submitted affidavits from three members of the jury to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, which is considering his application for a full or conditional pardon, a 120-day reprieve to permit a hearing or a commutation of the sentence.
Clemency, in the form of a commutation of sentence, is extremely difficult to obtain.
