Inmates in Maryland are often offered parole as a way to end their jail sentence early. The state offers parole to reward and encourage good behavior during incarceration and also alleviate crowding in jails and prisons. While parole is an opportunity to get out of jail, it also comes with its own set of limitations and restrictions. Violating those restrictions could land you back in court, and possibly even back in jail.
Parole Restrictions
When you are paroled, you will be given your own set of restrictions that you must follow. You’ll likely have scheduled visits with a parole officer, as well as required appearances in court. You may be required to refrain from using drugs and alcohol. You also may be restricted from having contact with certain people, such as past criminal associates or individuals who may feel threatened by your presence.
While these restrictions may make life difficult, it’s critical that you abide by them. Any violation of the restrictions could lead to even more penalties. Also, judges have wide discretion when it comes to parole violation in Maryland. Depending on the judge and the nature of the violation, you could get a warning or you could be sent back to jail.
If the court or your parole officer believes that you have violated the terms of your parole, they’ll decide on the next step. For minor offenses, they may simply issue you a warning. While a warning doesn’t bring added penalties, it does bring greater scrutiny. If have any violations after a warning – no matter how minor – you will likely face serious consequences.
If the parole officer and court feel your violation was too minor for a warning, they may schedule a parole violation hearing. This hearing is like a mini-trial about the alleged violation.
It’s important that you understand your rights in this hearing. First, the court must give you an official, written notice with the date and time of the hearing. They must also give you time to prepare. At the hearing, you’re allowed to have legal representation to present your case. You can call witnesses, present evidence, and refute any of the evidence against you.
At the end of the hearing, a neutral judge will make a ruling and impose any punishment that he or she sees fit. The judge will consider the severity of the violation, your past history, and whether he or she feels that you are likely to violate again.
Parole Violation Penalties
The penalties for parole violation in Maryland are wide ranging. You could have to pay a fine or do community service. If it was drug or alcohol related, you may have to undergo counseling or go through a rehabilitation boot camp. If the judge feels the violation was serious or violent, you could have your parole revoked and be sent back to jail for the remainder of your original sentence.
A charge of parole violation in Maryland is serious and isn’t something you should face alone. Consult with an experienced and knowledgeable criminal attorney before your hearing so you know what to expect and how best to address the charges.
