How do I become eligible for parole or probation?

In order to become eligible for parole or probation in the District of Columbia, one must typically first be convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison. If the court considers that the person is not a risk to public safety, they may be eligible for release on parole or probation instead of serving the entirety of their sentence in prison. Those who are eligible for parole must wait for the Parole Board to determine eligibility according to the criteria of a risk assessment and a viability plan. To be eligible for probation, the person must have committed a misdemeanor or non-violent felony crime, agreed to enter a plea of guilty, and has been sentenced either by a jury or judge. If approved, probation allows the person to serve their sentence outside of prison under the conditions of the court. These conditions may include regular meetings with a probation officer, drug testing, gainful employment, completing educational or treatment programs, and other requirements deemed necessary by the court. In addition to these requirements, those on parole or probation must obey all laws and regulations set forth by the court and their probation officer. Failure to do so may result in a revocation of parole and probation, and a return to prison to serve out the remainder of the sentence. It is therefore important that those who are granted parole or probation take the terms of their sentence seriously and make sure to follow the given instructions.

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How do I become eligible for parole or probation?

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