The Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles — Getting a Hearing (Part 2)
So you understand the Pardon and Parole Board’s authority to grant parole or pardons. How do we get them to consider your case? The answer depends on whether you (or a loved one) is seeking a pardon or parole.
In the case of parole, an incarcerated person will automatically have parole hearings scheduled periodically, depending on the length of their sentence. If the person has completed more than 5 years of their sentence, they can petition the board for a “parole cut,” or an early consideration for parole. The board can grant an early hearing if the person has shown good behavior and a good likelihood of success on parole.
It is important to know that you will likely receive less than 30 days notice when a parole hearing is set, so it’s a good idea to prepare ahead of time so that you don’t have to scramble at the last minute.
If a person is seeking a pardon, they may apply at any time after their court supervision is over. All court ordered monies must be paid in full, and any term of probation (even unsupervised) must be completed. The pardon request must contain specific information about the case and the applicant. If needed information is left out, the application will be rejected and the process will start over again.
When the hearing is set, you won’t have much notice (usually less than 30 days) so it’s a good idea to have a plan in place long ahead of time.
At Skier & Associates, we are well versed in the Board’s policies and procedures and will be happy to discuss your individual case in order to guide you toward the best course of action for you or someone you care about.
In the next installment, we will discuss the hearing itself, how to prepare for the hearing and some traps to avoid.