The presidential election is getting lots of media coverage nationwide, but in California, another measure on the ballot is attracting attention: Proposition 57. Voters will get the chance to weigh in on the measure, which will make it easier for some felons to be freed from state prison on parole. Public Media Channel KQED also reports that Proposition 57 will reduce recidivism because certain inmates have more incentive to participate in rehab programs. If issues regarding parole impact you or a loved one, a criminal defense attorney can tell you more about how it works in California. However, you can benefit from some general background on parole in criminal cases.
California’s Parole System: An Overview
Parole is a supervised program that you must adhere to after you’ve been released from a California state prison on felony charges. Not all inmates are entitled to the privilege of parole, but it may be granted by the parole board if members determine that you’re ready to be released and re-enter society. You are placed on parole for a specific amount of time, which depends on the nature of the crime. The terms of your parole may vary, but you are required by law to obey them. You are assigned a parole agent to ensure that you comply with the conditions.
Types of Parole
There are six different levels of parole under California law:
1. Intensive Re-Entry: There will be close, constant supervision by your parole agent after your release.
2. Regular Re-Entry: You will have access to services such as employment and housing upon your release, to reduce the risk of returning to crime.
3. Specialized Case: Supervision will be concentrated and intense for certain “high risk” parolees.
4. Case Management Parole: If you have demonstrated that you have successfully re-integrated yourself into your community, parole supervision will be reduced.
5. Electronic Supervision: This type of parole refers to a 24-hour monitoring system to ensure you comply with the terms of your release.
6. Subsistence and Personal Care: Services are provided to help ease your transition back into society, such as parenting education, financial support, clothing, and transportation.
Conditions of Parole and Violations
The specific terms of your parole will depend on your circumstances, but some of the more common conditions are:
· Consenting to a law enforcement search with or without cause, or a warrant;
· Agreeing to reside within a designated county;
· Registering with local law enforcement, for sex offenders and those convicted of drug crimes; and,
· Agreeing to stay away from certain factors that relate to your crime, like firearms, the internet, or known gang members.
Violating of any of the conditions may lead the parole board to revoke your parole arrangement which means you could end up back in prison.
If you’re charged with a crime in California and might qualify for parole, it’s important to discuss your case with a qualified criminal defense attorney. Whether you may be eligible under current law or will become eligible if Proposition 57 passes, you need a lawyer with extensive experience in criminal cases. Please contact a criminal attorney in San Diego who will work with you to determine the best way to seek parole and obtain a positive outcome.
Ozols Law Firm
8880 Rio San Diego Dr. #22
San Diego, CA
92108
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