Legal Definitions - board of parole

A board of parole, often referred to simply as a parole board, is a government agency or a panel of officials responsible for determining whether incarcerated individuals can be released from prison before completing their full sentence.

The board's primary function is to review the cases of eligible inmates, assessing factors such as their behavior while incarcerated, participation in rehabilitation programs, remorse for their actions, and the potential risk they might pose to public safety if released. If parole is granted, the board typically establishes specific conditions that the individual must adhere to during their supervised release in the community. They also oversee compliance with these conditions and can revoke parole if violations occur.

• Example 1: Granting Early Release
  Sarah has served 15 years of a 25-year sentence for a non-violent felony. During her incarceration, she earned a college degree, participated in anger management and vocational training programs, and maintained a spotless disciplinary record. She has also secured a job offer for when she is released.

  How it illustrates the term: Sarah's case would be presented to the board of parole. The board would review her institutional record, interview her, and consider any statements from victims or prosecutors. Based on her demonstrated rehabilitation and low risk, the board might decide to grant her parole, allowing her to be released from prison under supervision before her full sentence is completed.

• Example 2: Setting Parole Conditions
  Mark was approved for parole after serving time for a drug-related offense. The board of parole wants to ensure he successfully reintegrates into society and avoids returning to his previous lifestyle.

  How it illustrates the term: The board of parole would impose specific conditions for Mark's release. These might include mandatory drug testing, regular meetings with a parole officer, attending substance abuse counseling, maintaining steady employment, and avoiding contact with individuals involved in criminal activity. These conditions are designed to support his rehabilitation and protect the community.

• Example 3: Revoking Parole
  After being granted parole, Lisa was required to live at a specific address, maintain employment, and refrain from consuming alcohol. Her parole officer later discovers that Lisa has moved without permission, lost her job, and failed a mandatory alcohol test.

  How it illustrates the term: The board of parole would hold a revocation hearing to address Lisa's violations. After reviewing the evidence and hearing from Lisa and her parole officer, the board would decide if her parole should be revoked, which could result in her being sent back to prison to serve the remainder of her original sentence.