We are New Jersey parole violation attorneys who represent many parolees charged with violating the terms and conditions of their parole. The violation process can be very confusing and intimidating, particularly to a parolee facing their first violation. As such, we thought it would be helpful to parolees and their families to present a general overview of the parole violation process. As noted, the discussion below is very general; bear in mind that the best way to understand any individual violation matter is to consult with a parole violation lawyer in New Jersey.
The violation process starts with an arrest and a charge. Oftentimes, a parole officer will learn of facts indicating that what they view as a serious violation has been committed, and will then direct the parolee to report to the parole office. The parolee will be questioned in the office, and will almost certainly be asked to give a statement admitting to the facts underlying the violation. It is almost certainly not in the parolee’s interest to give such a statement. The fact is that a decision was probably made before they arrived to charge them with a violation and take them into custody, and this will occur regardless of whether or not they give a statement. Any statement given will just be used against them at a subsequent violation hearing. Therefore, the best course of action is to say nothing and be taken into custody. This sounds harsh; however, the absence of a statement will make it that much more difficult for parole to prove the facts underlying the charges.
Some parolees attempt to represent themselves at hearings. In our opinion, this is a mistake since the parolee will probably lack the skills to effectively cross-examine the parole officer who will be the primary witness against them, or to know when and how to raise objections. The best chance of success at a hearing comes with representation by a New Jersey parole violation lawyer at all phases of the violation process. Continue reading ›