Understanding the Different Types of Parole in the United States

Parole is a term that is often heard in the criminal justice system in the United States. It is a form of supervised release granted to an individual who has been incarcerated for a crime. The purpose of parole is to allow an individual to serve the remainder of their sentence in the community, under certain conditions and supervision. However, many people are not aware that there are different types of parole in the United States. In this article, we will explore the various types of parole and the differences between them.

What is Parole?

Before we dive into the different types of parole, it is important to understand what parole is and how it works. Parole is a conditional release granted by a parole board to an individual who has been incarcerated for a crime. It is a privilege, not a right, and is granted based on the individual’s behavior and progress while in prison.

Parole allows an individual to serve the remainder of their sentence in the community, under certain conditions and supervision. These conditions may include regular check-ins with a parole officer, drug testing, and restrictions on travel and employment. Failure to comply with these conditions can result in the individual being sent back to prison to serve the remainder of their sentence.

Types of Parole in the United States

There are four main types of parole in the United States: discretionary parole, mandatory parole, supervised release, and conditional release. Let’s take a closer look at each type and how they differ.

1. Discretionary Parole

Discretionary parole is the most common type of parole in the United States. It is granted by a parole board, which is a group of individuals appointed by the governor or state legislature. The parole board reviews an individual’s case and determines if they are eligible for parole based on their behavior and progress while in prison.

Discretionary parole allows the parole board to consider factors such as the individual’s criminal history, the nature of the crime, and their behavior while in prison. This type of parole is usually granted to individuals who have served a significant portion of their sentence and have shown rehabilitation and readiness to re-enter society.

2. Mandatory Parole

Mandatory parole, also known as mandatory release, is granted automatically to an individual who has served a certain portion of their sentence. The specific time served before being eligible for mandatory parole varies by state and the severity of the crime.

Unlike discretionary parole, mandatory parole does not involve a parole board review. Instead, the individual is released automatically when they have served the required time. However, they are still subject to certain conditions and supervision, similar to discretionary parole.

3. Supervised Release

Supervised release is a form of parole granted to individuals who have been convicted of federal crimes. It is similar to mandatory parole in that it is granted automatically after serving a certain portion of the sentence. However, supervised release is overseen by a federal probation officer, rather than a parole officer.

Supervised release also differs from parole in that it is not considered part of the individual’s sentence. Instead, it is a separate period of supervision after the individual has completed their sentence.

4. Conditional Release

Conditional release is a type of parole granted to individuals who have been convicted of a federal crime and have been sentenced to probation. It is similar to supervised release in that it is overseen by a federal probation officer. However, conditional release is granted at the discretion of the judge, rather than automatically.

Conditional release allows the individual to serve their probation period in the community, rather than in prison. However, they are still subject to certain conditions and supervision, similar to other types of parole.

Conclusion

In conclusion, parole is a form of supervised release granted to individuals who have been incarcerated for a crime. There are four main types of parole in the United States: discretionary parole, mandatory parole, supervised release, and conditional release. Each type differs in terms of eligibility, supervision, and conditions. It is important for individuals to understand the type of parole they have been granted and the conditions they must comply with to successfully complete their sentence.

FAQs

1. Can an individual be denied parole?
   Yes, an individual can be denied parole if they do not meet the eligibility criteria or if the parole board deems them a risk to society.
2. Can an individual’s parole be revoked?
   Yes, an individual’s parole can be revoked if they fail to comply with the conditions of their release.
3. Can an individual’s parole be extended?
   Yes, an individual’s parole can be extended if they violate the conditions of their release or if they are not ready to re-enter society.

You might also be interested in reading this article: “Family Reunification: Parole Process for Non-Citizen Spouses and Stepchildren”