Parole
Are you in prison? Are you a family member of someone in prison?
This is likely to be a difficult time for you and your family which is why we always act sensitively and with discretion.
Not many prisoners or their families realise that in most cases they are entitled to FREE legally aided Prison Law Representation whilst they are serving a prison sentence. We have a contract with the Legal Services Commission in Prison Law matters.
We will make written representations on your behalf to the Parole Board. We represent Lifers at their oral hearings and we challenge unfavourable decisions by way of judicial review.
You might be in prison, but that does not mean you do not have rights – let us voice them for you. Call FIRSTPRISONS, we will not let them throw away the key.
Lifer Review
The term “life sentence prisoner” (Lifer) refers to those sentenced to imprisonment for life and those sentenced to Imprisonment (or Detention) for Public Protection (IPP) unless specifically stated otherwise.
The Lifer Review and Recall Section (LRRS), the National Offender Management Service (NOMS), HM Prison Service, the National Probation Service and the independent Parole Board are all responsible for the management, release and recall of both lifers and IPP prisoners.
There are different types of life sentence (for example, Mandatory Life Sentences, Discretionary Life Sentences, Automatic Life Sentences and Indeterminate Sentence of Imprisonment (or Detention) for Public Protection). The type of sentence you are subject to will have been decided by the Judge.
Release is determined by the Parole Board on the basis of the risk of harm that you pose to members of the public.
The first parole board review is to consider your suitability for transfer to open conditions. It will normally begin around three years before the “tariff” (minimum term) expires in cases where the tariff is set for six years or over. Lifers are entitled to representation at this review we are entitled to a copy of your prison dossier to allow us to make the best case for you.
A different approach is taken if you are subject Short tariff. The date of your first review is set by LRRS on the basis of tariff length and progress in custody.
As a lifer, the panel may recommend either that you should remain in closed conditions; or transfer to open prison conditions.
The Secretary of State may refer to, and seek advice from, the Parole Board on any matters relating to the early release and recall to custody of those prisoners sentenced to imprisonment for life, custody for life, detention during Her Majesty’s pleasure, or detention for life.
The Parole Board is empowered to direct the release, or re-release following recall to custody, of Lifer’s who have served the period of imprisonment necessary to satisfy the requirements of retribution and deterrence.
We can help you to persuade the Parole Board to act fairly in your case.
You might be in prison, but that does not mean you do not have rights – let us voice them for you. Call FIRSTPRISONS, we will not let them throw away the key.
