Imprisonment is perhaps one of the most difficult periods in life, both for the convicted person and their family. In times like these, every ray of hope counts. One such ray of hope in the Hungarian legal system is the institution of parole, which provides an opportunity to spend the final phase of a sentence not behind bars, but among loved ones, beginning the process of reintegrating into society.
What is parole?
Simply put, it is a privilege that allows you to not have to serve the entire duration of your imposed prison sentence. If the penitentiary judge deems that you are ready for a law-abiding lifestyle and no longer pose a threat to society, they may permit you to serve the remainder of your sentence on parole.
When can it happen?
The court determines in the original verdict after what portion of the sentence this opportunity becomes available. The most important timelines are as follows:
In the general case: after serving two-thirds of the sentence.
As a repeat offender: after serving three-quarters of the sentence.
In all cases, the time served must be at least 3 months.
It is important to note, however, that anyone who does not voluntarily report to begin their sentence automatically excludes themselves from the possibility of parole.
The decision-making process: Who holds your fate?
The decision is always made by the penitentiary judge in a proceeding that starts automatically (ex officio). This means you do not need to separately apply for the procedure to begin. The penitentiary institution automatically sends the proposal to the judge two months before the eligibility date.
During the procedure, the judge will always hear you in person. This hearing is crucial, as it is your opportunity to personally convince the judge that you deserve their trust.
Before making a decision, the judge carefully considers several factors:
How can you increase your chances?
Although the process begins automatically, you are by no means a passive observer of the events. In fact, with proper preparation, you can significantly improve your chances. Penitentiary judges view it positively when they see that a stable, supportive background awaits you upon release.
What can you do to achieve this?
Exemplary conduct: Strive to earn as many rewards as possible, participate in reintegration programs, work, and educate yourself in prison.
Family support: Ask your family members to write a letter to the judge expressing that they are waiting for you to come home and will support your reintegration in every way. Bring this letter with you to the hearing!
A secure job: Obtain a letter of intent from a prospective employer. This is one of the strongest pieces of evidence that you will be able to establish an independent, lawful existence after your release.
Our law firm can provide you and your family with professional assistance in these critical areas. We help gather the necessary documents, advise family members on writing the support letter, and prepare you for the judicial hearing so that you make the best possible impression and your arguments are effective.
What happens after the decision?
If your request is denied: Do not despair! The denial is not final. The penitentiary judge will have to re-examine the possibility later. In that case, you or your defense counsel can also initiate the procedure. Professional legal representation is particularly important after a denial.
If release is granted: This is a huge step, but freedom is not yet guaranteed. The prosecutor's office may appeal the decision, which has a suspensive effect, meaning you cannot be released until the appeal is judged. Furthermore, if you commit a serious disciplinary offense before the day of your release, the judge may revoke the privilege.
Parole is an opportunity that must be earned. Do not leave your future to chance! With the right preparation and the support of an experienced legal representative, you too can prove that you are ready to open a new, clean chapter in your life.
If you or a loved one is affected and would like to enter the parole process with the strongest possible chance, contact our office with confidence. We will help you regain your freedom!
If you or your relative is serving a prison sentence and wishes to be considered for parole, then contact our law firm for expert legal assistance!
