Bail and parole are both opportunities for a defendant to get out of jail with certain restrictions, but they serve different purposes and occur at different times in the legal process.
At Davis, Ermis and Roberts, we believe the right legal knowledge is key to successfully navigating the legal system and getting the best possible outcome from your trial. Here’s our guide to the differences between bail and parole release.
If you need a skilled defense attorney, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of the talented lawyers at Davis, Ermis and Roberts.
Bail is a release from jail in the time leading up to the defendant’s trial. When you’re arrested, you’ll have a bail hearing within 48 hours of your arrest. At your bail hearing, the judge will tell you how much money you’ll have to pay to be released from jail. If you don’t pay your bail price, you’ll have to wait for your court dates in jail. By paying bail, either privately or with the help of a bail bondsman, you’re agreeing to show up to your scheduled court dates after your release.
Parole is granted after a conviction, and sometimes after a part of an inmate’s sentence has been completed, for good behavior. A judge will either give parole at the defendant’s conviction to give them a chance to go back to their lives, or after an inmate has served part of their sentence if they’ve behaved well in jail. If an inmate behaved well in jail or while on bail and their crime isn’t too severe, it’s possible to get parole without jail time. It’s also possible to be sentenced without the possibility of parole if a defendant’s crime is too severe.
Parole comes with certain regulations, just like bail. If you’re caught violating any of these rules, you’ll be taken back to jail to finish your sentence.
Bail and parole look pretty similar, both being conditional releases from jail, but they’re actually very different.
Bail occurs before a defendant’s trial, and it can be obtained with a payment and a promise to show up to all court dates. Parole comes after a conviction as a reward for good behavior behind bars. Bail is usually only granted by a judge, while there’s typically a dedicated board to make decisions regarding parole.
The legal system can be complicated and overwhelming, which is why you have the right to be represented by an attorney who can properly defend your case in court. If you’re looking for an experienced attorney who cares, hire one of the top-notch lawyers at Davis, Ermis and Roberts. We have experience with a wide range of charges and we’re dedicated to helping you get the best possible outcome in your trial. We’ve been practicing law for 35 years and we’re taking calls 24 hours a day to help you with any legal troubles you may have during the pandemic. Call or visit our website to schedule your free consultation today!