How to Write a Parole Support Letter

Published April 17, 2023

The family or friends of an incarcerated person or the offender themselves may write letters to a parole board. An offender’s chances of getting paroled are improved if they have an intelligent parole support letter supporting their release in their case file. Each parole request must be written with thought, compassion, and sincerity.

Each family member support letter for parole board should focus on how the perpetrator has changed, how they are going to be supported upon release, and how they plan to keep making progress in their life. Once parole letters have been submitted to the appropriate office, the parole panel has access to all letters, which may determine whether the parole applicant is released or denied parole.

How to Write a Parole Support Letter

While there is no required format, the letter should be detailed, organized, and true. The following guide for parole support letter examples will assist you in writing a letter:

1. Format

• Although a handwritten letter is acceptable, it is recommended to have a typewritten letter. Make sure to date your letter and make sure to address it to the panel board members.

• Next, include your name, age, and, if necessary, your title, occupation, etc. Then, outline the reason you are writing the letter.
• Note the frequency of your visits, the duration of your visits, and the distance you travel to reach the offender’s unit. Also, indicate how often you and your inmate exchange letters and how long you’ve been doing so.

2. Body

• Specify how long you’ve known the inmate and in what capacity you’ve known them. Provide narratives with detailed information. Describe the characteristics of the offender that lead you to believe they will not pose a danger to society or disobey parole conditions.
• If the offender has successfully completed programs, avoided engaging in inappropriate behavior while in detention, pursued opportunities for education, worked while being in custody, and so forth. These are achievements that should be brought to the attention of the parole board.
• In a letter of support, do not argue the offender’s innocence, downplay the wrongdoing, or justify it. Instead, support letters should list the inmate’s mistakes and their efforts to improve.
• Discuss the measures that you will take to help the offender, such as providing financial support, and clarify exactly how you fit into the release plan for the inmate.

3. Conclusion

• Reiterate that you will support the offender and briefly explain why he or she should be granted parole.
• Highlight the skills as well as work experience that will assist your inmate in finding employment. Next, emphasize how the selected residence will aid in your loved one’s rehabilitation and post-release success. Don’t forget to attach a photo and include contact information, if available.
• Will your inmate use public transportation or have access to a personal vehicle? Just include if a car is available. Then, describe the various forms of accountability in your inmate’s existence.
• Sign the letter with “Sincerely,” followed by your complete legal name and signature.