How Long Does Parole Last?

If you or a loved one has been released from prison on parole, one of the first questions is likely “how long will I be on parole?” Understanding parole periods and requirements is crucial to successfully completing parole and getting your full freedom back.

Parole length depends on factors like the type of crime and state laws. By learning parole terms and conditions in your state, you can prepare for success after incarceration.

What is Parole?

Parole is the supervised early release of prison inmates after completing part of their sentence. Parole allows finishing the sentence in the community rather than in prison. Typical parole requirements include:

• Reporting to a parole officer
• Following parole conditions
• Refraining from criminal activity
• Staying in the jurisdiction

If parolees violate conditions, they may be re-incarcerated.

How Long is Parole?

A standard parole term is 2-5 years, but durations depend on factors like:

• State laws – Each state sets parole lengths by statute.
• Time served – More time served can mean shorter parole.
• Type of crime – Violent crimes often have longer parole.
• Number of convictions – Repeat offenders may get extended parole.
• Disciplinary issues – Infractions in prison can lengthen parole.

The best guide for expected parole duration is your state’s statutes.

Federal Parole Terms

For federal crimes, standard parole terms under US Parole Commission rules are:

• Up to 1 year incarceration – 6-12 months parole
• 1-6 years incarceration – 12-24 months parole
• Over 6 years incarceration – 24-48 months parole

However, federal judges can increase or decrease the parole term at sentencing.

When Does Parole Start?

In most states, parole starts immediately upon release from prison. The clock starts ticking on your parole term as soon as you walk out the door. Be sure to report to your parole officer promptly.

How Early Can I Get Off Parole?

Many states allow parole discharge after half your term if you have no violations. For example, you may discharge after 1 year of a 2-year term. Requirements for early discharge can include:

• Serving half the parole term.
• Compliance with all parole conditions.
• No new arrests or convictions.
• Paying all fines and restitution.
• Holding steady employment.

Your parole officer will review eligibility for early discharge.

Violating Parole

If you violate parole by breaking conditions, missing meetings, or getting arrested, penalties can include:

• Increased reporting or drug testing.
• Community service or rehab programs.
• Short jail stays (flash incarceration).
• Full revocation of parole.

Revoked parolees must serve the remainder of their sentence in prison.

Extending Parole

In some cases, parole may be extended past the original term if:

• You abscond or are a fugitive.
• You have repeated violations.
• You have new convictions.
• You fail to complete parole requirements.

Be sure to comply with all conditions to avoid parole extensions.

Consecutive vs. Concurrent Parole

If convicted of multiple crimes, you may serve parole terms concurrently (at the same time) or consecutively (back to back).

For example, two 5-year terms could be:

• Concurrent – You serve one 5-year parole period.
• Consecutive – You serve two back-to-back 5-year terms, for 10 years total.

Ask your lawyer how parole will be structured at sentencing.

Parole vs. Probation

Parole and probation have similarities but key differences:

• Parole – Early supervised release from prison after serving time.
• Probation – Community supervision instead of jail time.

Parole only applies to those already incarcerated, while probation is an alternative to incarceration.

My Parole Seems Too Long

If your parole term exceeds state guidelines or norms, possible actions include:

• Ask your parole officer for early discharge.
• File an administrative appeal.
• Consult an attorney about filing a petition for habeas corpus relief.

However, courts generally give discretion to parole boards on term lengths.

Finishing Parole

Once you successfully complete all parole conditions and discharge your term, you will have satisfied your full sentence. Be sure to get documentation of completing parole to keep for records.

In most states, discharged parolees enjoy a full restoration of civil rights, including voting and gun ownership.

The Bottom Line

While parole has many restrictions, it beats serving time behind bars. Understanding parole terms and strictly following all conditions helps ensure you complete parole successfully and move on with life after incarceration.