After a person has been convicted of a crime, the court will hold a sentencing hearing for them. If a jail term is involved, a person will typically be assigned a minimum and potential maximum term of sentencing, and the court will assign a time period for a person's eligibility for parole. Parole is the release from incarceration dependent on a person's willingness and ability to adhere to certain terms. Terms can include regular drug and alcohol testing, as well as mandatory participation in court ordered programs, such as community service and rehabilitation. When a person has a sentence of less than 24 months, it will be served with the county, rather than the state. For individuals in Bucks County, the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas will hold authority over the matter.
Early Parole in Bucks County
At times it may be possible for a person to request for an early release on parole. This can be done at any time after a person has been placed into incarceration. When considering whether or not to grant an early parole release, a judge will consider the following factors:
- The crime that the defendant has been convicted of
- Any incidents of poor disposition during the defendant's incarceration period
- The defendant's sentencing hearing
- The overall impact that the criminal acts had on the community
- The defendant's ability to present valid evidence and arguments in favor of their release
Early Parole Hearings in Bucks County
A defendant must first file for parole within the county. Once a filing is successful, the Bucks County Board of Probation will begin their preparations for a hearing to determine if a defendant is to be released on parole. Typically, a defendant must fulfill their period for parole eligibility assigned by the court, however, at times it may be possible to achieve early parole. When a person successfully files for parole, they will be given a time for a parole interview with the board of parole. Members of the board, along with the judge who handled the case will hear out a defendant's arguments for their release. After the information has been heard out, the board will vote on a decision.
Although parole is often granted after the necessary time period is fulfilled, filing early can be a difficult process for an incarcerated individual. While the filing can be done without an attorney, the court must be convinced to allow the hearing and must be convinced to grant parole at the hearing. An attorney can strongly increase a person's chances at an early parole release hearing, and can even prepare a strong case to argue for their release at the hearing.
If you or a loved one is negotiating parole in Bucks County, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
