How Does Parole Work in Arizona?

July 28, 2023 Posted in Criminal Defense Law

If you have been imprisoned for wrongdoing in Arizona, you might have a chance of spending some of your prison sentence on parole rather than as an inmate. Parole is an arrangement that permits an individual sentenced to prison to be discharged before serving the entire term of their sentence, but they remain under the supervision of a parole officer who they meet with on a set schedule. Understanding how parole works in Arizona is vital to take advantage of this chance if you are eligible.

Eligibility for Parole in Arizona

The Arizona Board of Executive Clemency is accountable for deciding whether or not inmates can be allowed to receive parole. To be worthy of parole, you must have been convicted of a non-dangerous offense and served at least the minimum sentence established by the court before being considered for parole. You may also be required to complete a specific program or treatment while in prison before you are eligible for parole, depending on your conviction.

The length of this prison term will be determined by the severity of the misconduct you were accused of. For example, someone imprisoned for a violent crime will typically be given a longer sentence than someone convicted of a non-violent crime. If another individual was injured during the commission of your crime, you’ll likely have to serve a lengthier sentence. An inmate’s disciplinary record while in prison is also considered when determining parole eligibility. Those who cannot follow the rules while in prison are less likely to be given the chance to break the rules on the outside.

Parole progression starts with a hearing before the Board. During this hearing, the Board will consider a variety of factors to determine whether or not you are eligible for parole. These factors include your criminal history, the severity of your current offense, your actions while in prison, and any program you attended or treatment you have completed. If the board determines that you are eligible for parole, they will set a date for your release. After you are released, you will be placed under the supervision of a parole officer and be required to meet certain conditions set by the Board.

Once you are released on parole, you will be obligated to see a parole officer. These visits are usually quite frequent, perhaps once every two weeks on a schedule. The parole officer will ensure you are following your parole conditions and will help you find resources to assist with your reintegration into society. You will be obligated to abide by certain rules such as obeying the law, staying employed, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and perhaps even staying away from other bad actors. These constraints are meant to help you successfully reintegrate into society and avoid future criminal activity.

You may be referred back to the detention center if you infringe any of your parole rules. The parole revocation process will mean another hearing before the Board of Executive Clemency. At this hearing, the board will agree on whether or not to invalidate your parole. If your right to parole is removed, you may be ineligible for parole in the future. It’s essential to follow the parole directives to ensure a smooth transition back into society and to not once again lose your freedom.

Consulting a competent criminal defense representative is essential if you have been imprisoned for wrongdoing in Arizona. A lawyer at the Law Offices of Gary L. Rohlwing can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the best outcome. A criminal attorney will assess the facts against you and work to build up a solid defense. They can also negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf and assist you in preparing for your day in court.