The parole process starts when a prisoner becomes eligible. Prisoners are usually eligible after a certain number of years into a sentence but may have to fill out forms explaining why they qualify for parole and provide witnesses at the hearing.
Not all crimes are eligible for parole in some states and repeat or violent offenders can lose their privileges.
How to Apply for Parole
Even in states where they are automatically eligible for a parole hearing, prisoners must still complete a parole application. A case manager or attorney provides the application or the waiver if the prisoner decides not to apply.
The parole board will approve or deny the application. Prisoners who already have parole hearing dates can lose this privilege based on poor behavior while incarcerated.
A parole examiner reviews every application. Once the application is approved, prisoners will attend a parole hearing to decide if their application is granted.
What Happens at a Parole Hearing
Your attorney or case manager will let you know the date of your hearing in front of the parole board, and prisoners can invite family, friends and witnesses to speak on their behalf.
The parole board wants to hear about the accomplishments achieved while in prison and details regarding what the prisoner will do if released. The committee will discuss any prior criminal history and hear from the victim, the prisoner and their families and witnesses to determine if there could be a risk of re-offense.
At the end of the hearing, the parole board makes a recommendation, which will be reviewed again before an official decision is made. This can take up to 21 days. In some cases, the state’s governor may have to approve a parole request.
