Being placed on parole is something that many people see as a positive event. Instead of being stuck in prison, you are able to get out and learn how to live in society again. This gives you a chance to prove that you aren’t going to go right back to your former criminal life.
When you are on parole, you have to follow specific rules. These terms aren’t suggestions that you can comply with if you want to. They are hard and fast rules that can lead to your facing a parole violation if you don’t comply with them.
Examples of terms
One of the most important things that you have to do is report to your parole officer as required. The exact terms of this can vary depending on your original charge and other points in your case. You must ensure that you fully understand the reporting requirements so that you can comply with them.
You will also have to stay out of trouble while you are on parole. One term that is usually present is that you can’t hang around other felons or people who are on probation or parole. You can’t get any new criminal charges or you risk a parole violation.
Parole terms can also cover where you are allowed to travel. You might need to get a travel permit from your parole officer if you are leaving the county or the state. Other terms, such as the need to take random drug tests, holding a job and finding a permanent place to live, are also common for parolees.
Definition of a parole violation
A parole violation occurs when you don’t follow the rules of the program. Your parole officer is the person who determines if you did violate the terms. Having a good rapport with the officer might help if you do violate the terms. Sometimes, parole officers can decide if they are going to pursue a criminal charge for a parole violation.
Answering a parole violation accusation
You do get to answer a parole violation just like any other criminal charge. The difference here is that the case is heard before a judge. The judge has many possible sentences that he or she can impose if you are found guilty of a parole violation. One of these is that you might be sent back to prison to complete your original sentence. You might also get sent to jail for a specific amount of time.