Criminal Defense Lawyers

How Parole Works for Philadelphia Inmates

For inmates in Philadelphia’s county jails and state prisons, getting paroled early can mean the difference between serving a full sentence behind bars or returning to freedom. Parole provides supervised release under strict conditions before the end of a prison term. Understanding how parole works in Philadelphia can help inmates effectively pursue early release.

Parole Eligibility in Philadelphia

In Pennsylvania, parole eligibility depends on the type of sentence and convictions:

• Non-violent inmates serve a minimum of 50% of their sentence before parole eligibility.
• Violent offenders must serve at least 50% and up to 85% of their minimum sentence.
• Life sentences require a minimum of 15 years served.
• Some violent crimes require serving the full minimum sentence.

The PA Board of Probation and Parole decides parole on a case-by-case basis.

The Parole Application Process in Philadelphia

Applying for parole in Philadelphia involves these key steps:

1. Attend an initial parole interview with the Parole Board 6-18 months before eligibility.
2. Provide release plans detailing employment, housing, and other support systems.
3. Complete required programming like therapy, vocational training, etc.
4. Submit an inmate version detailing your offense, remorse, and rehabilitation.
5. Undergo a parole hearing with Parole Board members who will decide release.

Factors Considered for Parole in Philadelphia

The Parole Board weighs several factors when deciding parole for Philadelphia inmates:

• Criminal history and past parole failures
• Institutional conduct and program participation
• Remorse and acceptance of responsibility
• Release plans and community/family support
• Risk assessment scores
• Victim and prosecutor statements

Parole Conditions in Philadelphia

If granted parole in Philadelphia, strict supervision conditions apply including:

• Reporting to an assigned parole officer
• Obeying all laws and avoiding re-arrest
• Remaining in Pennsylvania unless granted travel privileges
• Following parole officer instructions
• Maintaining employment or school enrollment
• Paying fines, fees, costs and restitution
• Completing drug tests and other requirements

Violating any conditions can lead to re-incarceration.

Philadelphia Parole Violation Process

If a parolee violates conditions, these steps occur:

1. Parole officer reports violations to the Parole Board.
2. A detention hearing is scheduled to determine if incarceration is warranted.
3. If detained, a violation hearing decides if parole will be revoked.
4. If revoked, the parolee serves the remainder of the existing sentence.

How Long is Parole Supervision in Philadelphia?

Parole lengths in Philadelphia depend on the sentence but commonly last:

• 1-3 years for county jail sentences under 2 years
• 3-10 years for state prison terms of 2-10 years

Violations can extend parole. Sex offenders face lifetime supervision.

Early Discharge from Parole in Philadelphia

The Parole Board may grant early discharge from supervision if:

• All conditions are met for 1+ years
• All fines, costs and restitution are paid
• Employment or other requirements are fulfilled
• No violations or new arrests occurred

An attorney can request early discharge on a client’s behalf after 1+ years of compliant parole.

Philadelphia Parole Attorneys Provide Critical Help

Navigating the parole process and requirements in Philadelphia is complex. An experienced parole lawyer can guide inmates by:

• Determining eligibility for parole or early discharge
• Advising how to maximize chances of release
• Preparing strong written and oral arguments
• Advocating for the most favorable outcome

With an attorney’s help, Philadelphia inmates can effectively pursue parole, avoid violations, and work toward ending supervision.