In Georgia, inmates convicted of a crime and have served a part of their sentence can be granted parole through the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles (BOPP). To qualify for parole in Georgia, an individual must have served at least one-third of their sentence or seven years if they were serving a life sentence.
If you have been arrested and could face a longer prison term if convicted, you may wonder when or if you have a chance for parole. A Georgia parole attorney can answer your questions and help you understand how parole works in Georgia.
What is Parole?
Parole is a form of supervised release or early release from prison granted by a parole board before a prisoner's sentence ends. A prison inmate granted parole agrees to follow certain behavioral conditions, like avoiding criminal activities, attending counseling and regularly reporting to a parole officer. Failure to abide by the terms of parole can result in the offender being sent back to prison.
How is Parole Different From Probation?
As mentioned earlier, parole is the release of an inmate from prison before the completion of their sentence. Probation, on the other hand, is a supervision period in the community ordered by the court instead of a prison sentence.
An individual on probation must follow some conditions to avoid incarceration or other punishments. The probation process involves the offender being supervised by a probation officer and may include restrictions such as curfews, drug testing, and community service.
Who is Not Eligible for Parole?
In Georgia, some inmates are required to complete their entire sentence and do not qualify for parole. These are:
- Individuals serving a death sentence.
- Individuals who are serving life without parole.
- Prison inmates who committed their crime after the 1st of July 2006 and have been in prison for 30 years.
- Individuals who broke the law before the 1st of July 2006 and have served 14 years.
How Georgia's Parole Process Works
Georgia's parole process begins when an individual becomes eligible for parole. An investigator will investigate the inmate by checking their arrest and court records. The parole investigator will also interview the individual to create a personal history statement, including the inmate's account of the crime and their plan after release.
It should also state where their family is and where they have previously worked or lived. Once parole eligibility has been established, a parole hearing is scheduled. The hearing examiners will be required to make a recommendation before the case file is handed over to the parole board.
The parole hearing is repeated until there is a decision regarding parole. If the board awards parole, a tentative parole month (TPM) is set, which an inmate must serve before they are released.
Get a Georgia Parole Attorney Today
If you are facing a criminal conviction in Georgia that could result in a significant prison term, you need to work with an attorney who understands the parole dynamics. Fortunately, we are ready to assist you at The Bullard Firm. Contact us online or call (404) 954-0598 to discuss your case details with our lead attorney, Brandon Bullard, and get the legal assistance you need.
