CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYERS
Your Parole Hearing Lawyer Serving Southern Ontario
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Experienced Parole Hearing Lawyers
The attorneys at A. Dhillon Law are able to get people released from prison and into the community with parole, so that they can continue their lives following a criminal conviction. A. Dhillon Law can provide an experienced lawyer to conduct a hearing for parole anywhere in Ontario.
Parole Eligibility
In general, those convicted of crimes can be released from prison after serving one third of their sentence. If a prison sentence is fifteen years, the person will become eligible for parole after five years.
There are different rules for life sentences. For those convicted of first-degree murder, parole is not available until 25 years have passed. The judge may set the parole eligibility for individuals who are convicted of second degree murder at anywhere between 10 to 25 years.
What Happens at a Parole Hearing?
Parole hearings differ from traditional criminal justice proceedings, as they do not involve a judge. Instead, the offender appears before members of the Parole Board of Canada. Additional attendees may include:
- The offender’s legal counsel or a supportive individual, such as a family member
- The victim and their family, if they choose to attend
- An individual approved by the Parole Board of Canada
The hearings are typically informal, with a conversational format. Board members ask personal questions of the offender and discuss their conduct and progress with their parole officer. If the victim has prepared a Victim Impact Statement, it is also presented at the hearing.
Why Hire a Parole Lawyer Early in the Process?
Engaging a lawyer early ensures that all aspects of your case are reviewed and strengthened before your eligibility date. A lawyer can help you gather compelling evidence, address any institutional concerns, and prepare a solid release plan.
Early preparation often leads to more favorable outcomes at the hearing. It also demonstrates to the Parole Board your commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration. A. Dhillon Law supports you from start to finish with a focused legal strategy.
Parole Eligibility
Parole eligibility is based on specific criteria:
- Standard Sentences: Offenders are eligible for parole after serving one-third of their sentence and become eligible for statutory release after two-thirds.
- Life Sentences:
- First-degree murder: Offender must serve 25 years before parole eligibility.
- Second-degree murder: Parole eligibility is set by the judge, usually between 10 and 25 years.
- Life without a minimum ineligibility period: The individual can apply for parole after 7 years.
Pre-sentence custody credits reduce the remaining sentence, affecting parole eligibility calculations. For example, an individual sentenced to 4 years with 1.5 years credited would have parole eligibility based on the remaining 2.5 years.
Certain offenders may also qualify for work release, day parole, or unescorted temporary absences, while parole-by-exception may be granted under special circumstances.
Other Forms of Conditional Release
Beyond full parole, individuals may apply for two additional types of conditional release at a parole hearing:
1. Temporary Absence
Temporary absence allows the individual to temporarily leave the institution for approved reasons, such as community service, family visits, or medical needs. Temporary absences may be either escorted or unescorted.
- Escorted Temporary Absence: Available throughout the sentence
- Unescorted Temporary Absence: Eligibility varies by sentence length:
- Sentences over 3 years: Eligible after serving one-sixth of the sentence
- Sentences of 2-3 years: Eligible after 6 months
- Life sentences: Eligible 3 years before full parole eligibility
2. Day Parole
Day parole mandates the individual’s return every night to a residential facility in the community or a halfway house. Approval for a specific address, such as a family member’s residence, can be sought from the Parole Board. The Board may also impose specific conditions during day parole, like attending counseling or maintaining employment.
Eligibility for day parole starts six months before the individual’s full parole eligibility date or six months into the sentence, whichever is greater. For life sentences, eligibility commences 3 years before the individual’s full parole eligibility date.
Choosing the Right Parole Hearing Lawyer For You
The parole process can be convoluted and emotionally demanding. An experienced lawyer is well aware of the legal system and fights for your release on parole earlier based on rehabilitation, behavior, and merit. From examining your suitability to appearing with you at hearings, the proper legal assistance is crucial.
Effective Parole Hearings Lawyer Representation
An experienced parole hearings lawyer will assist you in preparing solid submissions and advocating for you on behalf of the Parole Board.
This involves collecting positive reports, character references, and showing community reintegration strategies, all important to a positive outcome.
Need “Parole Lawyers Near Me”?
If you are looking for parole lawyers near me, A. Dhillon Law provides client-centered legal assistance throughout Ontario.
We collaborate with individuals and families to create compelling parole applications specific to each situation. Our legal team ensures that all details are covered, making the likelihood of a favorable decision higher.
Conclusion
Obtaining parole is the key to regaining liberty and starting anew. With a skilled parole attorney by your side, you do not have to face this alone.
From making the paperwork ready to defending your case before the hearing, our attorneys walk with you through each step. A. Dhillon Law brings experience, compassion, and aggressive representation to assist you in turning the page.
Choosing the Right Parole Hearing Lawyer For You
The parole process can be convoluted and emotionally demanding. An experienced lawyer is well aware of the legal system and fights for your release on parole earlier based on rehabilitation, behavior, and merit. From examining your suitability to appearing with you at hearings, the proper legal assistance is crucial.
Effective Parole Hearings Lawyer Representation
An experienced parole hearings lawyer will assist you in preparing solid submissions and advocating for you on behalf of the Parole Board.
This involves collecting positive reports, character references, and showing community reintegration strategies, all important to a positive outcome.
Need “Parole Lawyers Near Me”?
If you are looking for parole lawyers near me, A. Dhillon Law provides client-centered legal assistance throughout Ontario.
We collaborate with individuals and families to create compelling parole applications specific to each situation. Our legal team ensures that all details are covered, making the likelihood of a favorable decision higher.
Conclusion
Obtaining parole is the key to regaining liberty and starting anew. With a skilled parole attorney by your side, you do not have to face this alone.
From making the paperwork ready to defending your case before the hearing, our attorneys walk with you through each step. A. Dhillon Law brings experience, compassion, and aggressive representation to assist you in turning the page.
FAQs for Parole Hearings in Ontario
A parole attorney guides clients through application, preparation, and representation with the Parole Board to attempt release before finishing the sentence.
You must hire a lawyer as soon as possible, in most cases before your parole eligibility date, to present your case very thoroughly.
Yes, it can help enormously to have a lawyer local to you who is familiar with the local Parole Board procedures and expectations.
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He takes the time to understand the unique needs and concerns of each case.
“Akash genuinely cares about his clients and consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism. Akash is extremely approachable, which fosters an open dialogue and creates a comfortable environment for discussing any issues or questions.”
He takes the time to understand the unique needs and concerns of each case.
“Akash genuinely cares about his clients and consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism. Akash is extremely approachable, which fosters an open dialogue and creates a comfortable environment for discussing any issues or questions.”
Hons B.A., J.D. | Criminal Defence Lawyer
Akash Dhillon
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We specialize in all forms of Criminal law
Criminal Defence in Ontario
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