Parole Violation Attorney in Birmingham

Your Lifeline in Parole Violation Cases

At Revill Law Firm, we understand the anxiety and uncertainty that come with parole violations. Based in Birmingham, our team of seasoned attorneys stands ready to step in and guide you through this challenging time, offering compassionate and professional legal support aimed at safeguarding your future. 

Parole violations can have serious repercussions, potentially leading to additional fines or even imprisonment. This is why having knowledgeable legal representation is crucial at every step of the process. Our attorneys have a comprehensive grasp of Alabama's parole system, providing you with the confidence that your case is being handled by capable professionals.

Facing a parole violation? We offer free consultations and are available 24/7. Call (205) 928-6544 or contact us online to speak with a parole violations lawyer in Birmingham today.

Understanding Parole Violation Laws in Alabama

In Alabama, the laws governing parole violations are found primarily in the Alabama Code, Title 15, Chapter 22. The Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles has the authority to release an inmate on parole, subject to a strict set of conditions. A person on parole who violates these conditions can be arrested and returned to prison. 

The burden of proof for a parole violation is much lower than for a criminal trial, so it is critical to have a strong defense. A knowledgeable parole violations lawyer in Birmingham will meticulously analyze the specific conditions of your parole and the allegations against you to build a strong defense.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

To revoke your parole, the state does not need to prove the violation "beyond a reasonable doubt," the standard in a regular criminal trial. Instead, the legal standard is whether the Board is "reasonably satisfied" that a violation occurred.

Common violations of parole include:

• Technical Violations: These are violations of the administrative conditions of your parole, such as failing to report to your parole officer, failing a drug or alcohol test, or violating a curfew. While these are less serious than a new crime, they can still result in a lengthy period of incarceration.
• Substantive Violations: This occurs when you are arrested for a new criminal offense while on parole. A substantive violation is treated with the utmost seriousness by the Board and is a far more likely reason for the Board to revoke your parole.

The prosecution's case often relies on the testimony of your parole officer and other witnesses. As a seasoned parole violations lawyer in Birmingham, we will challenge the government's evidence at every turn, scrutinizing the methods used to collect and analyze the evidence and questioning the credibility of their witnesses.

Penalties of a Parole Violation Conviction in Alabama

The direct legal penalties for a parole violation conviction in Alabama are steep and can include:

• Incarceration: A return to prison for a period of time, which can range from a few days to the remainder of your original sentence. The Board has the discretion to order you to serve the full sentence for which you were originally sentenced.
• Modified Conditions: The Board can impose stricter conditions on your parole, such as more frequent drug testing or a stricter curfew.
• Loss of "Good Time": A violation can result in the loss of "good time" credits, which can extend the length of your incarceration.

Collateral Consequences

A parole violation can have far-reaching non-criminal impacts. It can lead to the loss of a professional license, making it difficult to pursue a career in fields like healthcare or education. It can also be a significant obstacle to finding employment, as many employers conduct criminal background checks and view a parole violation as a major red flag.

A parole violation can also negatively affect your housing options, as landlords often run background checks. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

The Alabama Criminal Defense Process for Parole Violation Charges

Navigating the legal system in Alabama once a parole violation has been alleged can be confusing and overwhelming. The process is different from a regular criminal trial, and it requires a defense team with a deep understanding of the unique rules and procedures. 

Our firm provides a clear, step-by-step guide and will be with you at every stage, ensuring you understand your rights and your options:

1. Notice of Violation and Arrest: The process begins when your parole officer files a formal report with the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles, alleging a violation. A warrant is then issued for your arrest, and you are taken into custody.
2. Parole Court Hearing: Unlike a jury trial, this is a hearing before a hearing officer or a single Board member. The burden of proof is whether the Board is "reasonably satisfied" that a violation occurred. You have the right to present your own evidence and witnesses to challenge the allegations.
3. Disposition and Sentencing: If a violation is found, the Board determines the appropriate sanction. We will present mitigating evidence and arguments to the court to seek the most lenient sanction possible, such as a short period of local confinement or an alternative sanction.

Building a Strategic Defense

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. 

As a seasoned Birmingham parole violations attorney, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

• The Violation Was Not Willful or Intentional: We can argue that the alleged violation was not your fault and that you made a good faith effort to comply with the terms of your parole. For example, if you missed a meeting because you were in the hospital or if you failed a drug test because you were unknowingly exposed to a controlled substance.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove, by a "reasonable satisfaction," that you violated parole. We will challenge the prosecution's evidence, arguing that it does not meet this standard.
• The Terms of Parole Were Unclear or Unreasonable: In some cases, the terms of parole can be vague or impossible to follow. We can argue that you could not have reasonably been expected to comply with the terms.
• Mistaken Identity or False Accusations: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who committed a new crime or that the alleged violation is based on false accusations.
• Challenging the Underlying Criminal Charge: If the violation is based on a new criminal charge, we will defend you against that new charge. If we can get the new charge dismissed, it will likely resolve the parole violation as well.

Why Choose Revill Law Firm

Our clients choose us for our commitment to protecting their rights and developing personalized defense strategies. Our team's deep understanding of Alabama’s legal framework ensures we can handle complex parole scenarios effectively. 

We prioritize:

• Tailored Legal Solutions: Crafting defense strategies that align with individual client needs and circumstances. Our familiarity with the local legal environment allows us to anticipate challenges and devise proactive responses.
• Experienced Negotiation: Striving for outcomes that potentially avoid further incarceration. By negotiating effectively, we aim to reduce penalties and explore alternative sentencing where possible.
• Free Initial Consultations: Offering a risk-free evaluation to get you started with no financial barriers. This service is designed to empower you with essential insights and options tailored to your situation, facilitating an informed decision-making process.

Choosing Revill Law Firm means choosing a partner dedicated to your success and well-being. With a solid reputation built on years of dedication and client satisfaction, we offer not just legal representation but also peace of mind as you navigate the complexities of parole violations.

Reach out today; we are committed to standing by you every step of the way. Contact us online or call (205) 928-6544 for a free case evaluation.