What Happens When You Violate Parole in New York?

Serving a prison sentence is not easy, especially ones that last for several years. Parole is a system that allows incarcerated people to be released early on the condition that they continue to be supervised and abide by certain rules. Through this system, you can be let out of prison early and serve the remainder of your sentence while reintegrating into your community. When you violate the terms of your parole, however, you risk reincarceration and other penalties. To learn more and secure skilled legal advice today, contact a knowledgeable Ramapo criminal defense attorney at the Law Office of Kevin T. Conway.

What is a Parole Violation?

Put simply, a parole violation is any behavior on the parolee’s part that is in opposition to the terms and conditions of their parole. Depending on the details of your offense and circumstances, the conditions you are subject to will vary. However, below are some of the most common terms imposed on individuals released on parole in New York.

• Refraining from leaving the state without permission
• Regularly checking in with your parole officer
• Submitting to random searches of your person, residence, and other property
• Informing your parole officer of any changes in residence or employment
• Refraining from engaging with individuals known to participate in illegal activity
• Refraining from possessing or purchasing a firearm of any type or other deadly weapons
• Abstaining from consuming controlled substances without medical authorization

If you disobey the above conditions or any other terms set by the court, you have violated your parole. Remember that parole is a conditional release, and your right to remain in the community hinges on whether you comply with the terms of supervision. When you violate parole you can incur harsh penalties.

What Happens When You Violate Parole in NY?

Several things could happen after you violate parole in New York. The legal consequences you face will vary depending on the severity of your violation. A first offense or minor violation may not result in significant repercussions. For example, if you mistakenly forgot about a check-in with your parole officer, they may give you a warning or increase monitoring for a time. However, more serious violations have the potential to result in severe consequences.

If your parole officer has reasonable cause to believe that you violated one or more of the conditions of your release, you can be arrested. A preliminary hearing will be conducted to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that you have violated your parole. If probable cause is found, your case will proceed to a Final Hearing.

If you are found to have violated your parole, your conditional freedom can be revoked, and you can be imprisoned again. It is important that you take action to prevent being reincarcerated. Work with an experienced attorney for skilled legal advice during your case.