A prison term doesn’t signify the end of your journey; parole or a pardon might offer a chance for early release.
Consult an experienced attorney specializing in parole to enhance your prospects.
Legal experts are here to listen to your narrative.
How Much Does a Parole Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a parole lawyer depends on many factors, including:
- The lawyer’s experience and knowledge
- The complexity of your particular situation
- What steps the lawyer must take for your case
- The level of representation you need
Some attorneys require a retainer, while others charge flat fees.
Retainers can cost thousands of dollars, and once the lawyer has used up the retainer, they will begin to charge hourly.
Hourly rates for a lawyer working on parole issues typically range between $200 and $500.
A Parole Lawyer Can Help You
Having a qualified lawyer is crucial for parole. They can help at sentencing, parole application, and in case of violation.
A skilled parole attorney increases your chances of approval and supports you throughout the process.
What Is Parole?
Parole is conditional release from prison, allowing inmates to transition back into normal life.
Inmates must follow specific rules for a set time.
It encourages good behavior and must be taken seriously.
Qualification is necessary, followed by a parole board hearing.
Approval means adherence to parole terms.
Eligibility for Parole
A judge decides parole eligibility at sentencing. If eligible, there’s a specified date for release.
Some get life without parole.
Inmates usually serve one-third before parole.
Approval depends on circumstances; it’s not guaranteed.
How Do I Apply for Parole?
If you wish to apply for parole, your case manager will provide an application you must fill out and sign.
Turning in your application starts the parole process.
If the time for parole has come and you are not interested at that time, you are not obligated to apply.
Your case manager can provide a waiver instead.
What Happens if I’m Not Approved for Parole?
If you are not approved for parole, you will simply remain in prison.
If you wish, you may appeal the parole decision.
You have 30 to 60 days to file an appeal, depending on the laws in your state.
Your appeal will then either affirm, reverse, or modify the parole board’s decision.
In some states, an inmate may only appeal the decision under limited circumstances, for example, if new evidence appears that was not previously available.
If you are not approved, you will be eligible to apply for parole again after some passage of time.
What Does the Parole Board Consider?
At your parole hearing, the parole board will ask questions and consider factors to determine whether they should approve your parole. Common factors include:
- The type and severity of your crime
- The extent of your criminal record
- Your conduct while in prison
- Your mental stability
- Your character traits and attitude
- Your rehabilitation efforts
The parole board wants to be confident in their decision to release you on parole, as it will affect you and those around you.
If they feel you’ve earned your parole and would not be a threat to the community, they may strongly consider approving your application.
Will I Have a Parole Officer?
Yes. After you are approved for parole, you will be assigned a parole officer.
You will meet with your parole officer at specified times, usually monthly.
Your parole officer can serve as a resource during your time on parole, helping you to follow all guidelines and stay out of trouble.
Parole Rules and Conditions
If granted parole, you must follow certain rules and conditions throughout the entirety of your parole. These commonly include:
- Regularly reporting to your parole officer
- Living within a designated area
- Remaining in the state
- Maintaining employment
- Obeying all laws
- Avoiding use or possession of illegal drugs
- Possessing no firearms or weapons
- Avoiding contact with certain individuals
Conditions may vary depending on your circumstances.
You must follow all rules at all times to avoid possible repercussions.
How Long Does Parole Last?
There is no “average” parole time. Your parole length depends on the criminal offense that put you in prison in the first place and your conduct while in prison.
Usually, parole does not last longer than five years.
However, it can last longer, even the rest of a parolee’s life.
What Happens if I Violate My Parole?
If you violate any of the terms of your parole, there are many consequences.
Your parole officer is required to report the violation.
You might only receive a warning, but in many cases, you may be arrested or summoned to appear at a hearing.
Parolees that violate the conditions often get their parole revoked and must return to prison.
Your parole officer will usually recommend an appropriate consequence of your violation, and their recommendation carries weight.
Are Parole and Probation the Same Thing?
Parole and probation, though similar, have distinct differences.
Probation involves a suspended or minimal jail sentence, sometimes replacing prison, and requires adherence to conditions under a probation officer’s supervision.
Parole, however, never eliminates prison time, requires serving a portion of the sentence, and is not guaranteed; parolees are supervised by a parole officer after release.
\Both offer conditional freedom but follow different paths.