Are you looking for guidance on writing a Support Letter Sample For Parole? This essay will provide a comprehensive overview of what a strong support letter entails, along with examples you can adapt. Writing a parole support letter can be a crucial step in helping someone you care about. This letter can provide valuable information to the parole board and express your support for their release and reintegration into the community.
The Significance of a Support Letter for Parole
A support letter is essentially a character reference, offering the parole board insight into the individual’s life beyond their incarceration. It can highlight positive attributes, express remorse, and outline plans for a successful future. The parole board considers many factors before making a decision, and a well-written support letter can significantly impact their decision-making process.
There are several key elements that typically go into a support letter.
- Your Relationship: Clearly state your relationship with the individual.
- Positive Attributes: Focus on the person’s positive qualities, such as their work ethic, kindness, or willingness to change.
- Remorse and Responsibility: Acknowledge the offense and the impact it had, showing that the individual understands the consequences of their actions.
- Future Plans: Describe the individual’s plans after release, including housing, employment, and support systems.
The parole board will take your letter seriously because they are looking for evidence that the individual has the potential to be a law-abiding citizen. Providing a letter shows the individual’s rehabilitation and that you trust the person’s ability to reintegrate into society. Consider the format to ensure clarity.
- Start with a formal salutation.
- Clearly state your relationship.
- Provide specific examples.
- End with a supportive and hopeful closing.
Writing a support letter is more than just writing nice things; it’s about demonstrating genuine support, providing context, and offering a realistic picture of the individual’s potential for success.
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Relationship | State how you know the individual (friend, family member, etc.) |
| Positive Qualities | Share examples of their positive traits (e.g., hardworking, kind, etc.) |
| Future Plans | Outline their post-release plans (housing, job, etc.) |
Letter Example: Support Letter from a Family Member
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing to express my strong support for the parole of [Inmate’s Full Name], my [Relationship to Inmate – e.g., brother, mother, etc.]. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years and have witnessed firsthand his transformation during his incarceration.
Before his incarceration, [Inmate’s Name] made mistakes. However, he has used his time in prison to reflect on his actions and demonstrate a sincere commitment to change. He has participated in [mention programs or activities, e.g., anger management courses, educational programs, vocational training], and I’ve been consistently impressed by his dedication and willingness to learn. I believe he truly understands the impact of his actions and is deeply remorseful.
Upon his release, [Inmate’s Name] will be living with me at [Your Address]. He has secured a job offer at [Name of Company] as a [Job Title], and I will assist him in any way possible to ensure he remains on the right track. This includes providing emotional support, practical assistance with daily life, and helping him maintain his sobriety and continue therapy, if needed. I’m committed to being a constant presence in his life and offering the guidance he needs to become a contributing member of society. I am confident in his ability to be a law-abiding citizen.
Thank you for considering my support for [Inmate’s Name]’s parole. I believe in his potential and would appreciate your favorable consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Support Letter from a Friend
Subject: Parole Support for [Inmate’s Name]
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing to express my strong support for the parole of my friend, [Inmate’s Name]. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years, and our friendship has been a significant part of my life.
I have seen a remarkable change in [Inmate’s Name] since his incarceration. He has used this time for self-reflection, growth, and development. I’ve been able to talk with him on the phone, and he expressed deep regret for his actions. During these conversations, he’s shared with me about taking courses and participating in group therapy.
He has detailed plans to return to his family and get his life back on track, and I know that he wants to make amends. If released on parole, he will have a place to stay. I am available to provide assistance, including regular check-ins to make sure that he is staying in compliance with the rules. He has plans for employment to make sure he can support himself. I am optimistic and committed to supporting him in this new chapter of his life.
I sincerely believe that [Inmate’s Name] is ready to re-enter society and become a productive member. I am confident that he will be a great asset to society.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Support Letter from a Former Employer
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name]. I was his employer at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During that time, I observed [Inmate’s Name] to be a [List positive attributes, e.g., dedicated, hardworking, reliable] employee.
While I am aware of the circumstances leading to his incarceration, I can also attest to his strong work ethic and positive attitude when he was employed. I have always known him to be a dedicated and reliable individual. He was always on time, willing to learn, and a valuable member of the team. He consistently demonstrated initiative and a willingness to go above and beyond his assigned duties.
If released, [Inmate’s Name] has expressed his desire to seek employment. While I am not offering a job at this time, I am willing to provide a reference and offer guidance in his job search. I would also be willing to speak with any potential employers to vouch for his character and work history.
I believe that [Inmate’s Name] has learned from his past mistakes. Considering his demonstrated ability to work, his skills, and his dedication, I have faith that he can reintegrate successfully into the community.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Email Example: Support Letter Highlighting Rehabilitation Efforts
Subject: Support for Parole Application – [Inmate’s Name]
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing to show my support for the parole application of [Inmate’s Name]. I have been in contact with [Inmate’s Name] through [method, e.g., phone calls, letters, video calls], and I am impressed by his efforts to rehabilitate himself during his time in prison.
[Inmate’s Name] has actively participated in various programs, including [List of programs like: substance abuse treatment, educational courses, vocational training, anger management]. I believe that these programs have helped him come to terms with the mistakes he’s made in the past. He has also expressed a deep desire to change, is genuinely remorseful, and has a clear understanding of his actions.
Upon release, [Inmate’s Name] plans to [State plans, e.g., live with family, seek employment, continue therapy]. I and other members of his support network will be providing support to help him adjust to life outside the prison. We are available to ensure he does not fall back into old habits and stays on track.
I hope this letter provides you with additional insight into [Inmate’s Name]’s growth during his incarceration. I hope you will approve his parole application.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Support Letter Focused on Reintegration Plan
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing in support of [Inmate’s Name]’s parole application. I am a [Relationship to Inmate, e.g., friend, mentor, etc.] and have known him for [Number] years. I want to assure the board that he has a viable and well-thought-out plan for a successful transition back into the community.
[Inmate’s Name] has been actively preparing for his release. He will be residing with me at [Your Address]. He has a job opportunity at [Name of Company] where he will be employed as [Job Title]. This job will provide him with the financial independence and purpose he needs to focus on his life. Also, I am available to provide support, encouragement, and accountability to ensure he maintains his employment and remains in compliance with all parole requirements.
In addition to these practical steps, [Inmate’s Name] has also made great strides in addressing the underlying issues that contributed to his offense. He has also enrolled in [Specify any support groups, therapy, or counseling]. I am committed to supporting him in attending those sessions. These things will provide him with the resources and support he needs to reintegrate successfully.
I am confident in [Inmate’s Name]’s ability to succeed on parole because he has demonstrated a strong desire to change and make positive choices. I hope you will give him the opportunity to live a productive and law-abiding life.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Support Letter with a Focus on Character
Subject: Letter of Support for [Inmate’s Name]
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing in support of the parole application of [Inmate’s Name]. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years, and I have seen the positive character traits he has. Over the years, I have observed his ability to make changes and show remorse for his actions.
In the past, I have seen [Inmate’s Name]’s willingness to help others, his kindness, and his dedication to family. [Give specific examples, e.g., “He always went the extra mile to help his neighbors”, “He consistently volunteered at the local food bank” etc.]. His work ethic is admirable, and he has always been willing to learn new things. He values responsibility and knows the importance of being a good person.
Upon release, [Inmate’s Name] plans to [Detail plans, e.g., reconnect with family, find employment, work towards obtaining his GED]. He is committed to turning his life around and becoming a contributing member of society. Those close to him will be providing support, and he will be provided resources. I am sure he will make positive choices.
I believe that [Inmate’s Name]’s character, combined with his plans for the future, make him a strong candidate for parole. I am very hopeful about his future.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Support Letter Addressing the Offense
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name]. I am [Your relationship, e.g., his sister] and have known him for [Number] years. I want to assure you that [Inmate’s Name] is taking steps to address the reasons behind his past actions.
I understand the seriousness of [Inmate’s Name]’s offense. He accepts responsibility for his actions. Since his incarceration, he has actively participated in [Programs/Therapy, e.g., anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, substance abuse programs]. He is attending a program to help him avoid behaviors that may lead to poor choices. I believe that this, combined with his genuine remorse, shows that he has addressed the root causes of his offense.
Upon release, [Inmate’s Name] will live with [Who will he live with?]. He is committed to staying on the right track and has a plan to do so. I am here to assist him. Also, he has a good work ethic. He is actively looking for a job and has a strong support system to lean on, including friends and family.
I believe that [Inmate’s Name] has changed. I know that he is ready to become a law-abiding citizen. He has a good plan, and his actions demonstrate genuine remorse and a commitment to change.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
In conclusion, a well-crafted support letter can significantly increase an inmate’s chances of parole. By providing a clear picture of the individual’s positive attributes, addressing the offense, outlining post-release plans, and expressing genuine support, you can help the parole board make an informed decision. Remember to be honest, specific, and heartfelt in your letter, and tailor it to the individual’s unique circumstances. The examples given are simply a starting point, adapt them to suit your own personal situation and relationship with the inmate to write the best letter you can.