Yes, you can go to jail if you are found in violation of the terms and conditions of your parole in New Jersey, as this can result in the revocation of your release and return to incarceration. Parole is an important benefit to many incarcerated people. Through parole, certain inmates are allowed to be released early under the supervision of a parole officer. The parolee agrees to certain conditions, and their freedom is contingent upon their behavior after being released. As such, if you violate your parole in Princeton, Hopewell, West Windsor, or anywhere in Mercer County, you can be penalized and even sent back to prison. If you require the help of an attorney, speak with a skilled Mercer County probation violation lawyer to discuss the details of your situation.
What Is Parole in Mercer County?
Parole is a form of early condition release from incarceration that allows individuals to serve a portion of their sentence outside of prison. However, it’s critical to understand that this does not mean you are “free,” as parole involves close supervision. As such, the parole board will implement strict terms and conditions that must be followed as part of this early conditional release.
Key Features of Parole
- Early release from incarceration before the completion of your full sentence
- Supervision by a New Jersey State Parole Board officer
- Mandatory compliance with strict terms and conditions
- Violations may result in additional rules or reincarceration for the remainder of your sentence
- Considered a privilege, not a right
What Are the Conditions of Parole in New Jersey?
The terms and conditions of parole will vary depending on the unique circumstances of the person’s criminal history. There are some general guidelines that most people on parole will have to follow.
Common Conditions of Parole
- They must check in with their parole officer regularly
- They must agree to random home visits and searches
- They must agree to random drug testing
- They must get permission from their parole officer before traveling out of the state or country
- They cannot obtain or possess firearms
- They must maintain employment and give their parole officer updates on any employment changes in a timely manner
However, as mentioned, the exact terms of your parole can vary based on the circumstances of the crime for which you were convicted. For example, a child pornography conviction may result in mandatory registration on the sex offender list as part of your parole, while an assault conviction may require you to attend counseling.
How Do You Violate Parole in New Jersey?
There are generally two ways that you can be guilty of violating your parole. When you break one or more of the conditions of your parole in Mercer County, you have committed a technical violation. A new criminal violation is one where you committed a new crime while on parole.
Types of Parole Violations
You might commit a technical violation by:
- Possessing a firearm
- Traveling out of state without informing their parole officer
- Failing to notify your parole officer about a change in your employment status
You might commit a new criminal violation by:
- Committing a new crime that is unrelated to your previous conviction, for example, getting charged for a drug crime when you were in jail for assault
Common Examples of Parole Violations
- Missing a required check-in with a parole officer
- Failing a drug or alcohol test
- Traveling out of state without prior approval from the parole officer
- Failing to inform the parole officer of changes in address or employment
- Being found in possession of a firearm or other weapons
- Breaking curfew
- Committing a new criminal offense
- Being found in association with other criminals or past associates
What Happens if You Are Caught Violating Parole in Mercer County?
The New Jersey State Parole Board has what is known as the Revocation Hearing Unit. When a parolee is charged with violating the terms of their parole, the Revocation Hearing Unit will take over the case. You are entitled to two hearings. During the first hearing, they will determine whether or not you committed the charged violations or not.
If you are found to have committed the violations in Mercer County, the board will decide if the situation warrants your parole being revoked or if other action should be taken. They might decide to adjust the conditions of your parole agreement instead of revoking it altogether. If they do decide that you have seriously violated the terms of parole, you will have a revocation hearing.
Keep in mind that you may be arrested and placed in custody during the period between your first and second hearings. At your second hearing, your parole may be revoked, and you could be placed back into incarceration to finish your sentence.
Steps in the Parole Violation Process
- Your parole officer will determine if there is probable cause for a violation
- You may be detained pending your hearing
- A probable cause hearing will occur
- If probable cause is determined, the board will schedule a revocation hearing
- Evidence will be reviewed to determine if a violation has occurred
- The parole board will determine an outcome if a violation has occurred, including:
- Revocation of parole
- Modification of parole terms and conditions
- Formal warning for minor violations
- Continuation of parole if no violation has occurred
What Penalties Can You Face for a Mercer County Parole Violation?
It’s necessary to understand that the penalties you can face for a parole violation will depend on the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. This includes the severity of the violation, as well as your past compliance with the terms and conditions imposed by the court.
Potential Consequences
- Formal warning for minor or first-time violations
- Increased supervision or the implementation of new terms
- Additional reporting requirements
- Revocation of parole and subsequent return to prison to serve the remainder of your sentence
- Possibility for new criminal charges if a new crime was committed.
Contact an Experienced Mercer County Criminal Defense Firm Today
If you are accused of violating the terms and conditions of your parole in Princeton, Hopewell, West Windsor, or any of the surrounding Mercer County communities, it’s critical to connect with an experienced attorney with the Law Office of Douglas Herring. Our firm understands how serious these matters can be, which is why we are committed to helping you fight for the best possible outcome. When you need assistance, contact our firm today to learn how we can represent you.
