Parole FAQs

Parole involves serving part of your sentence under certain conditions, which can include supervision by community corrections officers. Like house arrest, it is an alternative form of criminal sentencing, and its purpose is to prevent overcrowding in the prison system while also helping offenders adjust to life in the outside world. Here at the Law Office of Shahin Zamir, we are often asked certain questions concerning parole, a few of which include:

Who is Eligible for Parole?

This depends on a number of factors that can include:

• The original sentence
• The offender’s behavior while incarcerated
• The nature of crime committed
• Whether or not there have been legislative changes regarding sentencing since the crime was committed

In most cases, eligibility for parole comes after an convicted individual has served around a quarter of his time credits. Those who have committed a violent crime after September 1, 1993 will have to serve at least half of their time credits in order to be eligible.

How is Parole Granted?

In order to be considered for parole, an offender will need to fill out an application from their case manager. If the application is accepted, the parole board will set a hearing date, and the offender’s case manager will then notify him of this date. At this hearing, the individual who is applying for parole will be asked a series of questions so that panel members can decide whether he deserves to be released early. The parole board may also review other documents, including those related to the offense in question.

What Decisions Can a Parole Board Reach?

After hearing all the evidence, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles will come to one of three different conclusions, which are:

• Granting parole and setting a date for it to happen
• Denying parole, but setting a date for reconsideration
• Denying parole by issuing a “serve-all” sentence, which means that parole will not be considered again in the future

What Conditions are Normally Associated With Parole?

Individuals who are paroled must continue to exhibit good behavior, and they must normally report to a community corrections officer from time to time. They may also be required to pay monetary fines, perform community service or undergo routine screenings to ensure they do not use illicit drugs. A person who violates the terms of his parole can be sent back to prison to finish the remainder of his sentence behind bars.

If you or a loved one would like help with applying for parole, speak to attorney Shahin Zamir at 713-223-8900.