Asked 7/13/17 – Dallas, TX

My sister was murdered when she was 19. The person was sentenced in 1993 to life with the possibility for parole. His last parole hearing was 5 years ago and he was denied as he was in solitary confinement for trying to escape prison. He is now up for parole again. What rights do i have? Should i get an attorney to make sure he isn’t released this time?

Answer

The final decision regarding the parole of an inmate is up to the Board of Pardons & Parole, but you certainly have the right to have input at the parole hearing. You may make a personal appearance, send a letter, or submit whatever material you deem proper for the Parole Board to consider. You can retain an attorney if you wish, but that attorney cannot guarantee the outcome of any parole hearing, regardless of what you present to the Board. Good luck.