When convicted of a crime, you may face an array of harsh penalties including jail time. If you are sentenced to serve jail time, depending on whether you pose a threat to the safety of the public, you may be offered the opportunity to obtain conditional freedom through parole. Essentially, after serving a portion of your sentence, you can be released early from jail. However, in exchange, you must adhere to certain conditions to re-enter society. Those granted parole are referred to as parolees. Usually, parolees have to comply with conditions such as regularly meeting with their assigned parole officer, submitting drug and alcohol tests, attending rehabilitation programs, maintaining employment and a residence, and following a curfew. If a parolee violates the terms of their parole, they will face significant penalties and could wind up back in jail. Keep reading to learn more about what could happen if you are accused of violating the conditions of your parole. In addition, contact a proficient Rockland County Criminal Defense Attorney who can defend your rights and interests at a violation hearing.
What are some examples of parole conditions parolees usually have to adhere to in New York?
If you are fortunate enough to be granted parole, it is imperative to adhere to the terms of your release to remain out of jail. Typically, one of the most common conditions parolees have to comply with is attending regular meetings with their designated parole officer. Parole officers are in charge of supervising those out on parole and ensuring they are abiding by the conditions of their parole. Parole officers are entitled to conduct unannounced visits and searches to make sure a parolee is on the straight and narrow path. If you are released on parole, it is imperative to never miss an appointment with a parole officer. This could result in them filing a notice of violation with the parole board which can result in them imposing stricter parole conditions. In New York, some common parole conditions include but are not limited to the following:
- Avoid any criminal activity
- Avoid communication with any victims of your crimes
- Community service
- Drug or alcohol treatment
- Refrain from drug or alcohol use
- Submit drug and alcohol tests
- Follow a curfew
- Travel restrictions (must obtain permission from your parole officer to spend a night somewhere other than your permanent residence or to leave New York.
- Electronic monitoring
- Maintain a job
- Maintain a residence
What are the potential penalties for violating the conditions of my parole?
If you are accused of violating parole in New York you will be brought before a parole board where a hearing will be conducted to determine what consequences you should face. Depending on the severity of the violation, the consequences may vary. Minor violations often result in stricter conditions. However, they can result in you being sent back to jail. Major violations could warrant a parole board to revoke your parole and order you to finish the remainder of your jail sentence. In some cases, the board may order you to serve more time than your original sentence.
If you have been accused of violating the terms of your parole, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our seasoned attorneys. Our firm can represent your interests and fight on your behalf during a violation hearing. Allow our skilled attorneys to help you avoid being sent back to prison.
