Parole is the conditional early release of a convict from prison under supervision after a part of the sentence has already been served. When a convict is found capable of conforming to the behavioral norms of the society, the jail authorities may consider him for release on parole.
When an inmate who has been released on parole breaks any condition of the same or commits any new offence, the conditional release on parole is liable to be revoked or taken away. In this respect it is similar to probation.
Unlike probation, parole is regulated by administrative procedures.
Usually in most states the parole officer is authorized to deal with minor violations without the involvement of the parole board. In most states the parole officer can immediately take into custody, such offenders on parole who pose a threat to the society, for 24 to 48 hours in order to obtain a warrant of arrest against him in the meantime.
A parolee enjoys the following legal protections: -
Right to written notice of revocation proceedings including the alleged violations
Right to confront and cross examine the accusers
Right to know the reasons for revocation of parole
An indigent parolee is entitled to the assistance of a court appointed at the revocation. In case the parolee can afford to hire a private attorney, he may engage one since there is no bar to representation in parole revocation hearings.
Many states including the federal government concerned with the protection of citizens have abolished the parole program. As a result, there is overcrowding of the prisons and correctional facilities. Moreover, in the absence of parole the option of probation is being increasingly used.
