Parole and Probation Lawyers
LegalMatch Law Library Managing Editor, Ken LaMance, Attorney at Law 
What is Parole?
- Supervision that begins after a person is released from prison or jail after serving part of their sentence
- In some states parole is not available for some crimes
- Parole is a privilege and not a right, and only available in limited circumstances
- If the terms of parole are violated the person will most likely be required to return to jail or prison to finish their sentence
- Parole eligibility dates are determined by statutes drafted by the state's legislature
- In the federal prison system parole is called supervised release
The Parole Board
- Usually it is for the parole board to decide whether the person will be released on parole or remain in jail/prison
- Factors the parole board considers include:
- public safety
- helping the offender get back into society
- age
- mental stability
- marital status
- education/training
- remorse
- time served
- prior criminal history
- type and severity of the offense
- behavior habits and traits
- rehabilitative efforts/progress
- conduct while incarcerated
What is Probation?
- A sentencing procedure where the offender avoids jail or prison and instead remains under the court's supervision for a set period of time under set guidelines
- The judge decides whether or not to grant probation
- Typical requirements for probation include:
- Obey all laws
- Abide by court orders
- Report change of employment or address to probation officers
- Abstain from excessive use of drugs or alcohol
- Travel may be limited unless okayed by a probation officer
- Subject to drug tests
- You may be subject to announced and unannounced probation officer visits to verify that you are abiding by the terms of your probation
- Probation may be revoked and you could be sent to jail or prison if any of the above requirements are violated
- The length of probation is at the Court's discretion, but usually will be between 1-5 years
Should you Speak to an Attorney about Parole or Probation?
If you have any questions about Parole or Probation, you should speak to an attorney immediately to learn more about your rights and the complicated legal system.
Vea esta página en español: Libertad Condicional o visita Abogados-Leyes.com para más información legal.
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Last Modified: 05-20-2009 04:38 PM PDT
