What Are the Rules of Parole in Tennessee?
Parole is a condition of early release for some inmates serving jail or prison sentences, and the rules for successful completion of parole are exacting. Having a better understanding of what’s expected of you can help to ensure that you are successful and having an experienced Nashville criminal defense attorney in your corner is always advised.
Your Parole Case
Every parole case is unique to the circumstances involved, but factors like the following can derail your parole efforts:
- If you are considered a substantial risk for noncompliance
- If your best interests would be better served by delaying parole – to continue receiving medical care or vocational training, for instance
- If your release would have substantially adverse effects on institutional discipline
The Tennessee Board of Parole also takes factors such as strong community support or opposition regarding the parole case into consideration.
The Basic Rules of Parole
If you are paroled, there will be rules and regulations attached that you’re required to follow, and failure to do so can land you back behind bars. Your parole conditions will be specific to your unique circumstances, but there are a range of basic rules and requirements that tend to apply, including:
- Reporting to your parole officer on a regular basis
- Promptly notify your parole officer about any job change or change in job status
- Following all electronic monitoring and curfew requirements imposed
- Attending any classes or programs required of you
- Ensuring that you don’t possess any firearms or weapons
- Remaining on the right side of the law
- Allowing searches of your residence, yourself, and your possessions by law enforcement
- Living within a prescribed area and not leaving that area without obtaining permission to do so
- Submitting to random testing for drugs or alcohol
Having a Job
If you are paroled, you may have a job waiting for you or a career that you won’t have much difficulty starting back up. It’s important to note, however, that having a criminal charge on your record can seriously affect your ability to find work, and having a job is a primary condition of parole.
As a parolee, you’re required to have a lawful job unless you’ve been officially certified as disabled. This condition of parole, however, can be waived temporarily in order to allow you a brief period to find a job – or in response to certain medical conditions.
Make the Call to an Experienced Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have concerns regarding your parole, it’s an important matter that can directly impact your ability to stay out of jail or prison. The formidable Nashville criminal defense attorneys at Raybin & Weissman recognize how serious your situation is and are well-prepared to help you resolve the matter as effectively and efficiently as possible – in full support of your best interests. Your future is important, so please don’t wait to reach out and contact us online or call 615-256-6666 for more information today.