Parole Violation Attorney in Port Orchard
Your Trusted Ally in Navigating Parole Violations
At Glisson Legal, we understand the complexities surrounding parole violation cases in Port Orchard. With over 20 years of experience in criminal defense, we are committed to providing informed guidance and unwavering support to our clients. Our approach focuses on challenging accusations with robust defense strategies and personalized attention to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Each parole violation case presents unique challenges, necessitating a reliable legal partner capable of crafting personalized strategies. Whether dealing with technical violations or new offenses, our firm is dedicated to thoroughly assessing each aspect of your case. This meticulous evaluation includes understanding your parole conditions, evaluating the alleged breach, and exploring any mitigating circumstances that may lessen the severity of the accusations.
Facing a parole violation? We offer free consultations and affordable services. Call (360) 526-8191 or contact us online to speak with a parole violation attorney in Port Orchard today.
Understanding Parole Violation Laws in Washington
In Washington State, the term "parole" primarily applies to individuals sentenced for crimes committed before July 1, 1984. For crimes committed after that date, a person is released from prison to a period of "community custody," which is a form of post-release supervision.
Both parole and community custody have a strict set of conditions that, if violated, can result in incarceration. The law governing these violations is found primarily in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 9.94A. A knowledgeable Port Orchard parole violation lawyer will meticulously analyze the specific conditions of your supervision and the allegations against you to build a strong defense.
Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove
To revoke your parole or community custody, the state does not need to prove the violation "beyond a reasonable doubt," the standard in a regular criminal trial. Instead, the standard of proof is much lower: a "preponderance of the evidence." This means the prosecutor only needs to prove that it is "more likely than not" that you violated a condition of your supervision. This lower burden of proof makes a violation hearing very difficult to win without a strong defense.
Common violations of parole or community custody include:
- Technical Violations: These are violations of the administrative conditions of your supervision, such as failing to report to your community corrections officer, failing a drug or alcohol test, or violating a curfew. While these are less serious than a new crime, they can still result in a lengthy period of incarceration. For technical violations, the DOC can impose a sanction that may include a period of confinement in a county jail or an alternative sanction, such as an electronic home monitoring program. The length of the confinement is limited by the law.
- Substantive Violations: This occurs when you are arrested for a new criminal offense while on supervision. A substantive violation is treated with the utmost seriousness by the court and is a far more likely reason for a judge to revoke your parole. If a person is accused of committing a new crime while on supervision, they will face a new criminal charge in court in addition to a violation hearing. If they are found guilty of the new crime, their parole or community custody can be revoked, and they can be sent back to prison for the remainder of their original sentence.
The prosecution's case often relies on the testimony of your community corrections officer and other witnesses. As a seasoned parole violation attorney in Port Orchard, we will challenge the government's evidence at every turn, scrutinizing the methods used to collect and analyze the evidence and questioning the credibility of their witnesses.
Penalties and Consequences of a Parole Violation Conviction in Washington
A finding of a parole violation is a life-altering event. The legal penalties can be severe, and the collateral consequences can be even more devastating, creating barriers that can feel impossible to overcome. Our firm, Glisson Legal, is dedicated to protecting you from these severe penalties and consequences. As a dedicated parole violation attorney in Port Orchard, we will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life, your family, and your future.
The direct legal penalties for a parole violation conviction in Washington are steep and can include:
- Incarceration: A return to jail or prison for a period of time, which can range from a few days to the remainder of your original sentence.
- Modified Conditions: The court or the DOC can impose stricter conditions on your supervision, such as more frequent drug testing or a stricter curfew.
- Loss of "Good Time": A violation can result in the loss of "good time" credits, which can extend the length of your incarceration.
Collateral Consequences
A parole violation can have far-reaching non-criminal impacts. It can lead to the loss of a professional license, making it difficult to pursue a career in fields like healthcare or education. It can also be a significant obstacle to finding employment, as many employers conduct criminal background checks and view a parole violation as a major red flag.
A parole violation can also negatively affect your housing options, as landlords often run background checks. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.
The Washington Criminal Defense Process for Parole Violation Charges
Navigating the legal system in Washington once a parole violation has been alleged can be confusing and overwhelming. The process is different from a regular criminal trial and requires a defense team with a deep understanding of the unique rules and procedures.
Our firm provides a clear, step-by-step guide and will be with you at every stage, ensuring you understand your rights and your options. We are an assertive Port Orchard parole violation lawyer who will be your unwavering advocate from your initial contact with law enforcement to the final resolution of your case.
- Notice of Violation and Arrest: The process begins when your community corrections officer files a formal report with the Department of Corrections (DOC), alleging a violation. A warrant is then issued for your arrest, and you are taken into custody.
- Violation Hearing: Unlike a jury trial, this is a hearing before a hearing officer or a judge. The burden of proof is a "preponderance of the evidence." You have the right to present your own evidence and witnesses to challenge the prosecution's case.
- Disposition and Sentencing: If a violation is found, the hearing officer or judge determines the sanction. We will present mitigating evidence and arguments to seek the most lenient sanction possible, such as a short period of local confinement or an alternative sanction.
Building a Strategic Defense for Parole Violations
Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned Port Orchard parole violation lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:
- The Violation Was Not Willful or Intentional: We can argue that the alleged violation was not your fault and that you made a good faith effort to comply with the terms of your supervision. For example, if you missed a meeting because you were in the hospital or if you failed a drug test because you were unknowingly exposed to a controlled substance.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that you violated parole. We will challenge the prosecution's evidence, arguing that it does not meet this standard.
- The Terms of Parole Were Unclear or Unreasonable: In some cases, the terms of parole can be vague or impossible to follow. We can argue that you could not have reasonably been expected to comply with the terms.
- Mistaken Identity or False Accusations: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who committed a new crime or that the alleged violation is based on false accusations.
- Challenging the Underlying Criminal Charge: If the violation is based on a new criminal charge, we will defend you against that new charge. If we can get the new charge dismissed, it will likely resolve the parole violation as well.
Why Choose Glisson Legal
The Glisson Legal is distinguished by our:
- Over 20 Years of Experience: Providing reliable legal representation in Washington courts.
- Specialization in Criminal Defense: Focused expertise catering to clients facing parole and broader criminal charges.
- Local Knowledge: Deep understanding of Kitsap County's legal landscape.
- Client-Centric Approach: Personalized care ensuring timely communication and updates.
Choosing a law firm with a strong history of dedication to client outcomes means entrusting your case to seasoned professionals who prioritize clarity and communication. We acknowledge the emotional toll that legal proceedings can impose and strive to alleviate this burden through meticulous preparation and clear articulation of legal rights and options.
Contact Us for Supportive Legal Guidance
If you or a loved one faces a parole violation in Port Orchard, the Law Office of Stan Glisson is here to offer reassurance and strategic legal solutions. With our client-focused service, you can expect a dedicated team to stand by your side through every phase of the legal process. Reclaim your peace of mind by reaching out today.
Contact us online or call (360) 526-8191 for a consultation, where we can discuss how we can assist in alleviating the stress of your circumstances.
