In Massachusetts, parole is granted by the Massachusetts Parole Board, made up of seven members appointed by the governor. The Massachusetts Parole Board has broad powers to grant or deny an individual parole.

Parole is awarded when a majority of the voting board members are “of the opinion…that there is a reasonable probability that, if the prisoner is released with appropriate conditions and community supervision, the prisoner will live and remain at liberty without violating the law and that release is not incompatible with the welfare of society.” Mass. Gen. Law. ch. 127, § 130.

As both a practical and legal matter, a person is still serving their sentence when they are on parole. It is similar to probation in the sense that the person’s punishment consists of certain requirements, one of which will be supervision in the community, rather than being in custody in a Massachusetts prison or house of correction. This means that if a person violates their parole conditions, then their freedom can be revoked and they can be returned to custody.

Information posted on our website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are seeking assistance navigating a loved one’s parole hearing, please contact our law firm for a free consultation and quote for services.