If you face a criminal conviction in Colorado, understanding mandatory parole can help you navigate what comes next. Mandatory parole is the period of required supervision you may serve in the community after completing a specified portion of your prison sentence. Failing to follow the parole rules could have serious consequences.
What to expect from mandatory parole in Colorado
You may need to serve a set period of parole after leaving prison depending on your case. State law and the Colorado Department of Corrections generally set the length and conditions. During this time, your parole officer monitors your compliance.
Understanding mandatory parole time
The class of felony you were convicted of can affect how long you spend on mandatory parole supervision. Knowing this ahead of time may help you plan for life after incarceration. The Colorado legislature sets typical periods for mandatory parole based on the crime. For example:
- A Class 2 felony generally carries a mandatory parole period of three years for non-violent crimes and five years for violent offenses. Violent crimes are offenses that involve causing harm to another such as assault, kidnapping or first-degree burglary.
- A Class 3 felony may carry a mandatory parole period of three years, regardless of whether the offense was violent or not.
- A Class 4 felony may include around three years of parole. Crimes in this category often include lower-level drug distribution, vehicular homicide or certain types of theft.
- A Class 5 felony can mean roughly two years of supervision. This level covers many common felonies, such as drug possession, identity theft or felony menacing.
- A Class 6 felony usually carries about one year of parole. These are the least severe felonies and may include offenses like criminal mischief or failure to register as a sex offender.
These periods may vary depending on the specifics of your case.
Key rules of parole supervision
While on parole, you will have a Community Parole Officer (CPO), who oversees your supervision. The Colorado State Board of Parole generally sets the conditions you must follow. Some apply to all parolees, while others may target your specific situation. Typical requirements may include:
- Checking in regularly with your CPO
- Avoiding criminal activity and following all laws
- Maintaining steady residence and employment
- Complying with drug and alcohol testing
- Getting approval before leaving Colorado
These rules aim to help you adjust successfully to life outside prison and not following them could put your conditional freedom at risk.
What may happen if you violate your parole
A parole violation can range from missing a check-in to committing a new offense. If your parole officer reports a violation, you might need to attend a revocation hearing. At this hearing, the Colorado State Board of Parole or an Administrative Law Judge could impose penalties such as returning you to prison, extending your parole or assigning alternative sanctions.
Taking control of your parole journey
Mishaps and misunderstanding while serving parole in Colorado can hurt your case, making it critical to have a strong understanding of your rights and obligations. An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide the support you need to navigate and serve your mandatory parole, helping you protect your future.