Everyone who is sentenced to serve time in a Nevada State Prison gets placed on parole (not probation) upon their release from prison. The amount of time one spends on parole depends upon the crimes he or she was convicted of, and the terms of his or her sentence. But, in every case, an individual on parole will be required to abide by certain conditions such as reporting to his or her parole officer, not using illegal drugs, or misusing prescription drugs. (This includes not using recreational marijuana).
An Arrest for a Parole Violation Entitles a Parolee to a Hearing
If a parolee allegedly caught violating the terms of his/her parole, he or she will be arrested by his or her parole officer and sent back to prison. Although a parolee is often sent right back to prison after being arrested for a parole violation, the parolee is still entitled to a hearing before the court sustains the alleged parole violation.
Parole violation hearings are almost always held at a state prison where the Parolee is being housed. The hearing may be conducted in person with members of the parole board, or it may be conducted via video conference to another city (often Reno or Carson City) or to another prison where the board members are meeting.
It is important to know that a parolee has the right to have a defense attorney represent him or her before the board during a parole hearing.
During the hearing, a representative from the Department of Parole and Probation will present the state’s case. This will include a review of the facts and evidence that the state relies on to support the parole violation. A good defense attorney then has an opportunity to cross exam the arresting officer and question the state’s evidence. Defense counsel also has an opportunity to present evidence in defense of the alleged violation.
A Criminal Defense Attorney can Make a Difference
With the help of a good defense attorney, it may be possible to have the board determine that the parolee did not commit a parole violation. In other cases where the board determines that the parolee violated his or her parole, it is possible that you may be able to reduce the amount of time one goes back to prison. In some cases, your defense attorney may also be able to help you keep your previously earned good-time credit.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a parole violation, contact the attorneys at The Wright Law Group, P.C. today. Our attorneys have successfully defended others before the Parole Board and we are well equipped to defend you as well.
Call us now at (702) 405-0001 to arrange a consultation.