Parole Supervision for Life

Parole Supervision for Life in New Jersey

If you or a loved one has been sentenced to parole supervision for life in New Jersey, it’s important to understand what it entails. Unlike traditional parole that ends after a certain period, parole supervision for life imposes long-term restrictions and oversight.

In this article, I’ll explain key things you need to know about parole supervision for life in NJ. We’ll cover:

• What crimes trigger lifetime parole
• The conditions of lifetime parole supervision
• Consequences for violating lifetime parole
• How to end lifetime parole early
• Why working with a parole attorney is important

The goal is to help you understand the unique requirements and challenges of lifetime parole so you can be prepared.

What Crimes Lead to Parole Supervision for Life in NJ?

In New Jersey, the following sex offenses require parole supervision for life upon release from prison[1]:

• Aggravated sexual assault
• Sexual assault
• Aggravated criminal sexual contact
• Kidnapping of a minor

The sentencing judge has no discretion – lifetime parole is mandatory when convicted of these crimes. The only exception is if you are deemed to be terminally ill with less than 12 months to live.

Conditions of Parole Supervision for Life in New Jersey

If sentenced to parole supervision for life, you must abide by standard parole conditions plus additional restrictions[2]. These include:

• Reporting to a parole officer regularly
• Obeying curfews and travel restrictions
• Avoiding contact with victims and minors
• Attending counseling and treatment programs
• Submitting to drug tests and searches
• Restrictions on computer use and Internet access
• Possible GPS monitoring

You must comply with these conditions for the rest of your life or face re-imprisonment for parole violations. The parole board can also impose special conditions beyond the standard ones.

Consequences for Violating Parole Supervision for Life

If you violate any of your lifetime parole conditions, you face being sent back to prison. The parole board will hold a revocation hearing to determine if a violation occurred and merits revocation. If so, you may be re-imprisoned for:

• 6 months to 1 year for the first violation
• 1-3 years for a second violation
• 3-5 years for a third or subsequent violation

You will serve the revocation term in prison before returning to parole supervision for life again. Repeated violations can keep you perpetually cycling in and out of incarceration.

Ending Parole Supervision for Life Early in New Jersey

Although called “lifetime” parole, there are ways parole supervision can end early in some cases[3]:

• Minimum term – After 15 years minimum with no violations.
• Age 70 – Parole automatically ends at age 70 if on for 15+ years.
• Medical condition – Terminal illness diagnosis with less than 12 months to live.
• Expungement – Very limited circumstances where conviction is expunged.

The parole board has wide discretion over whether to grant early termination, so you need an attorney to advocate on your behalf. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not automatically end lifetime supervision.

Why Hiring a Parole Attorney is Essential

Navigating parole supervision for life in New Jersey is extremely difficult without legal guidance. An experienced parole attorney can assist you by:

• Advising you on the full scope of your parole conditions
• Helping ensure compliance with all requirements
• Advocating for fewer restrictions from the parole board
• Negotiating dismissal of any alleged violations
• Arguing for early termination once eligible

Without proper legal advice, you risk unknowingly violating parole and facing reimprisonment. Do not leave your fate solely to the parole board – make sure your rights are protected.

Let Our Firm Help You With Parole Supervision for Life Issues

If you or someone you love is dealing with lifetime parole in New Jersey, please contact us to discuss your situation. Our experienced parole attorneys are here to help you understand your obligations and advocate for the most favorable outcome possible.