As a criminal defense attorney practicing in Georgia, I often get questions from clients and their families about what happens after a parole hearing. The hearing itself can be stressful, emotional, and filled with uncertainty. But what comes next can be just as confusing, especially if you’re not familiar with the inner workings of the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles.
Let’s walk through what to expect after a parole hearing.
No Immediate Decision
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that the Georgia Parole Board does not make a decision immediately. Unlike a courtroom proceeding, where a judge may issue a ruling immediately, parole decisions are made after the hearing concludes. The Board may issue their final decision weeks or even months after the hearing.
The Board members review the hearing materials, any victim impact statements, letters of support or opposition, and other documents before making their decision privately. There is no set timeframe, which can be frustrating for families waiting anxiously for such important news.
The Review Process
After the hearing, the Parole Board members review the case privately. Here’s what they typically consider:
- The parole applicant’s criminal history and behavior while incarcerated;
- Any rehabilitation efforts such as completed educational programs, counseling, or vocational training;
- Input from victims or prosecutors;
- Support from family or community members;
- The parole applicant’s reentry plan, which may include transitional housing, sobriety support, employment, and other important reentry services; and
- The overall risk to public safety if the individual is released.
The Board has broad discretion to grant or deny parole. The Board does not have to follow a specific formula, which means outcomes can vary widely based on the particular case and the Board’s interpretation of the evidence and revelant parole materials presented to them.
Notification of Decision
Once a decision has been made, the parolee and their attorney (if they have an attorney) will be notified of the Board’s decision. If parole is granted, the letter from the Board will usually include:
- The parolee’s release date (which could be immediate or set in the future); and
- The parolee’s parole conditions (e.g., mandatory reporting, treatment programs, geographic restrictions, transitional housing, ankle monitor, drug and alcohol testing, etc.).
If parole is denied, the Board will typically provide the parole applicant with their parole reconsideration date, which may be years down the line. In Georgia, it is not uncommon for parole applicants to be given a set-off period of up to eight years before their next review, depending on the conviction, victim opposition, prosecutor opposition, and other relevant circumstances.
After Parole is Granted
If parole is granted, there are important steps that follow:
- Parole plan approval: The parolee must have an approved release plan, including a stable address and other requirements that the Board deems appropriate. This may include, but is not limited to, employment, vocational training, and attending Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
- Pre-release supervision planning: The parole officer assigned to the parolee’s case should ensure the parolee understands their responsibilities post-release. However, the assigned parole officer may not coordinate with the parolee before their release. If the parole officer does not coordinate with the parolee, the parolee should meet with their parole officer the day of their release.
- Release timeline: Even after parole is granted, it can take several weeks for the parolee to be released.
It is important that the parolee and their family comply with all of their parole conditions to ensure the parolee’s parole grant is not revoked.
If Parole is Denied
If parole is denied, do not lose hope. As a defense attorney, I always advise my clients to focus on what they can control. I suggest the following:
- Continue to demonstrate positive behavior and growth inside prison by avoiding disciplinary citations or altercations with other incarcerated people or staff;
- Enroll in available personal development programs, vocational training, and educational courses;
- Stay connected with your support network on the outside; and
- Work with legal counsel to strengthen your future parole application(s).
Have Questions? Give Me a Call.
Parole in Georgia is not guaranteed. But having knowledgeable legal support, a comprehensive reentry plan, and strong parole materials can make a real difference. If you need help navigating Georgia’s parole system, contact our office today. We are here to guide you every step of the way.
