What Happens If You Violate Parole?

Parole is often viewed as a privilege for inmates and not a right. As such, when inmates are released early, they must adhere to specific conditions to maintain their freedom. Parole is intended to reintegrate those who have demonstrated good behavior and rehabilitation back into society. When an inmate is out on parole, an officer will observe them to ensure they don’t violate their terms. If you violate the conditions of your parole, you will face an array of harsh penalties, including the possibility of returning behind bars. Please continue reading to learn the potential consequences of parole violation and how a determined Escambia County Criminal Defense Lawyer can effectively represent your interests.

What Are the Potential Penalties for Parole Violation?

Simply put, violating parole is failing to live up to its conditions. Violating the terms of parole can lead to severe consequences that can significantly impact a parolee’s life. It’s essential to understand the potential ramifications to mitigate the risks.

In the event of a parole violation, law enforcement officials can apprehend the parolee if they have probable cause that the parolee committed a violation or engaged in a new criminal offense. Once taken into custody, the parolee will be detained, and the duration of their detention may vary based on the specific circumstances of the violation. After the parolee’s arrest, they are entitled to a parole revocation hearing, which is conducted to establish whether the parolee indeed breached the terms of their parole and what consequences they should face. The following include some of the consequences you could be subject to for parole violation:

• Monetary sanctions: Depending on the severity of the violation, the parole board or court could impose steep fines as a consequence of parole violation. The acceptable amount can vary, but failure to pay the fine can lead to additional legal consequences.
• Additional conditions imposed: Following a parole violation, you could be subject to additional conditions. These conditions include stricter supervision, mandatory counseling or treatment programs, or community service. This is to address the issues that led to the violations and foster successful reintegration.
• Extended parole period: In case of a severe violation, you could face an extension of your parole period. This means you could be required to serve more time under supervision to make up for the violation. This extension aims to provide offenders with the opportunity to demonstrate compliance.
• Reinstatement of the original sentence: In more severe cases, if a parolee violates their terms, their parole can be revoked. This means the offender would be placed back into custody, and their original sentence would be reinstated. As such, you would return to prison to serve the remaining portion of your initial sentence, which had previously been suspended or reduced due to parole.

Given the high stakes of a parole violation, it’s crucial to retain the legal services of an experienced Escambia County criminal defense attorney who can defend your rights at your parole hearing. Contact The Law Office of James M. Burns today to learn how we can provide individualized legal counseling when your freedom is on the line.