Writing a parole support letter is a crucial step in demonstrating an inmate’s rehabilitation and potential for successful reintegration into society. These letters provide the parole board with valuable insight into the inmate’s character, their support network, and their plans for the future. A well-crafted letter can significantly impact the board’s decision. The stronger the message, the better the chances of securing parole.
A powerful parole support letter should clearly state your relationship to the inmate, detail the positive changes you’ve witnessed, and explicitly commit to providing support upon their release. Be honest and sincere, and avoid exaggeration. Focusing on specific examples of positive behavior and concrete plans for assistance will make your letter more persuasive.
When writing a parole support letter, maintain a professional tone and follow these tips. First, clearly state your relationship to the incarcerated individual and the length of your acquaintance. Next, highlight any observed positive changes in their behavior, attitude, or mindset. Then emphasize their commitment to rehabilitation programs. Finally, express a willingness to assist with their reintegration by offering housing, employment, or emotional support.
Before submitting, proofread the letter for grammatical errors and typos. A polished and professional letter conveys seriousness and respect for the parole board. Remember that the parole board wants to hear about tangible changes and plans, not just abstract statements of support. By providing detailed examples and a clear commitment to help, you significantly improve the impact of your letter and the inmate’s chances of parole.
24 Sample Parole Support Letters
Below are 24 sample parole support letters, showcasing different relationships and perspectives. Remember to adapt these examples to your specific situation and the inmate’s individual circumstances. Focus on honesty, sincerity, and concrete examples.
- Sample 1: From a Family Member
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to express my strong support for the parole of [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I am his [Relationship – e.g., mother, brother, wife]. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years.
Since his incarceration, I have witnessed a significant change in his behavior and attitude. He has actively participated in [Specific Program – e.g., anger management, GED program] and has shown a genuine desire to rehabilitate himself. He regularly expresses remorse for his actions.
Upon his release, I am prepared to offer him housing at my home located at [Address]. I will also assist him in finding employment. I believe that with the support of his family and the skills he has acquired during his incarceration, [Inmate’s Name] can successfully reintegrate into society and become a productive member of our community.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 2: From an Employer
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to support the parole of [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I am [Your Title] at [Company Name].
I am aware of [Inmate’s Name]’s past and believe everyone deserves a second chance. I am willing to offer [Inmate’s Name] a position at [Company Name] upon his release. The position would be [Job Title], involving [Brief Job Description]. We are prepared to provide the necessary training and support for him to succeed.
We are committed to providing [Inmate’s Name] a fair and stable employment opportunity to promote successful re-entry. We believe in [Inmate’s Name] potential and are happy to give him the opportunity to succeed.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 3: From a Friend
To the Parole Board,
My name is [Your Name] and I am writing to you today to strongly support the parole of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I have been friends with [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years.
Over the course of [Inmate’s Name] incarceration I have seen real efforts made by him to become a better person and prepare himself for a life upon his release that does not result in him returning to this situation. He is regretful about the actions that brought him here and speaks often of righting those wrongs and being a productive member of society.
I can assure you that I would be there to assist him in his transition with emotional support. Should he be granted parole, I will be available to help with any tasks he needs to complete so that he can become an upstanding citizen once again.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 4: From a Mentor
To the Parole Board,
I am [Your Name], and I am writing to advocate for the parole of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I’ve served as [Inmate’s Name] mentor through the [Organization Name] program.
During our sessions, I have been particularly impressed with [Inmate’s Name]’s commitment to self-improvement. He actively seeks advice, and applies what he learns to better himself. His willingness to accept responsibility for his actions and the positive strides he makes are commendable.
I will do everything I can to help him. I am in full support of parole for [Inmate’s Name]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 5: From a Community Leader
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to express my support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. My name is [Your Name], and I am the [Your Position] at [Organization].
Based on my knowledge and involvement with [Inmate’s Name] during his time as a volunteer at [Organization], I feel confident in his ability to make a positive contribution to our community. I believe in [Inmate’s Name] chance to succeed.
I hope that you will support this opportunity. He will be successful in parole. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 6: From a Religious Leader
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to give my full support for the parole of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your Position] at [Organization].
I have seen [Inmate’s Name] turn his life around through faith. His dedication and the desire to live a fulfilling life upon release is clear. His work is a testament of his transformation.
I am in full support and will do anything to help him with a successful transition into life after prison. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 7: From a Former Colleague
To the Parole Board,
My name is [Your Name] and I am writing in support of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number] for parole. I was a colleague with [Inmate’s Name] at [Company].
I know [Inmate’s Name] has made missteps that brought him into prison. He has the skills to become a contributing member of society and he has the drive to do it as well. I have no reservations supporting [Inmate’s Name] for parole.
Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any further questions. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 8: From a Teacher
To the Parole Board,
I am writing in full support of parole for [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. My name is [Your Name] and I was a teacher of [Inmate’s Name] for the [School Name] program.
His dedication to his education impressed me. [Inmate’s Name] is willing to improve and has demonstrated that he is capable of improving.
I support his application for parole. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. Thank you.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 9: Focused on Responsibility
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to support the parole of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I am [Your Title] at [Company Name].
He has taken accountability for the mistakes made and is ready to transition back into the outside world to become a useful member of society.
I am fully supportive of the parole of [Inmate’s Name] and I thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 10: Focused on Future
To the Parole Board,
My name is [Your Name], I am writing in support of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number] to be granted parole. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years.
[Inmate’s Name] has a bright future and with your approval of parole, he can come back to society a success.
I thank you for the time you take to read this letter. Please know that I fully support [Inmate’s Name]’s application for parole.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 11: From a Spouse
To the Parole Board,
I am writing this letter with a heavy heart, but also with unwavering hope, to express my full support for the parole of my husband, [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I am his wife.
Our marriage has faced incredible challenges, but through it all, I have witnessed a profound change in him. He understands the gravity of his mistakes and is committed to making amends, not only to society, but also to me and our family. He has shown remorse and genuine regret and has been diligently working to better himself.
If [Inmate’s Name] is released, I am fully committed to supporting him in every way possible. I will provide a stable and loving home for him, assist him in finding meaningful employment, and encourage him to continue therapy. I believe he deserves a second chance and that with my support, he can be a loving husband and a productive member of society.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 12: From a Sibling
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to advocate for the parole of my [brother/sister], [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. We have been siblings our whole lives.
Growing up together, we shared many experiences, both good and bad. I know [Inmate’s Name] well, including his flaws, but I also know his heart. I believe that [Inmate’s Name] has what it takes to change.
I will assist [Inmate’s Name] any way that I can. I promise to be there for him and support him. I would be very grateful for [Inmate’s Name]’s parole.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 13: Focus on Personal Growth
To the Parole Board,
My name is [Your Name] and I am writing in support of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]’s request for parole. I met [Inmate’s Name] through the [Organization Name] program.
During our time together I have watched [Inmate’s Name] experience immense personal growth. I support his parole request and believe he deserves to be granted.
I will do anything that I can to help [Inmate’s Name]. I thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 14: Commitment to Support
To the Parole Board,
I am writing this letter to support the request of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number] for parole. My name is [Your Name] and I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years.
I promise to assist [Inmate’s Name] in any way that I can to help him be successful. I fully support the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
I will do everything I can to help him. I am in full support of parole for [Inmate’s Name]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 15: Emphasis on rehabilitation
To the Parole Board,
I fully support the request for parole by [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. My name is [Your Name], and I have worked with [Inmate’s Name] in the [Program Name] program.
I have witnessed firsthand [Inmate’s Name] efforts toward rehabilitation. He has proven himself a successful student. I would recommend [Inmate’s Name] for parole.
I am here to support and help [Inmate’s Name]. I am in full support of parole for [Inmate’s Name]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 16: Focus on Change
To the Parole Board,
My name is [Your Name] and I am in support of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number] for parole. I am the [Your Role] at [Company Name].
In my professional opinion, I believe [Inmate’s Name] is changed and will not revert back to past mistakes. He is very aware of his mistakes and takes pride in changing those mistakes.
I will do everything I can to help him. I am in full support of parole for [Inmate’s Name]. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 17: From a Program Volunteer
To the Parole Board,
I am [Your Name], I am writing to support the parole of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I volunteer at the [Program Name] program.
During our time together I have been impressed by [Inmate’s Name]. I would be very pleased to see him come back into the world.
I promise to assist [Inmate’s Name] any way that I can to help him be successful. I fully support the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 18: Offer a Helping Hand
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to support parole for [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. My name is [Your Name].
Should [Inmate’s Name] be granted parole, I can provide help as he reenters the world. Please consider parole for him.
I promise to assist [Inmate’s Name] any way that I can to help him be successful. I fully support the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 19: Emphasis on Community Support
To the Parole Board,
I am [Your Name], and I am writing to ask you to grant parole to [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. My community is in full support.
[Inmate’s Name] will bring great value to the community upon release. We all have him in our thoughts.
I promise to assist [Inmate’s Name] any way that I can to help him be successful. I fully support the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 20: Focus on Sincerity
To the Parole Board,
My name is [Your Name], and I am giving parole support to [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years.
I believe [Inmate’s Name] is being sincere and should be granted parole. He has shown that he is worthy of being granted parole.
I promise to assist [Inmate’s Name] any way that I can to help him be successful. I fully support the parole of [Inmate’s Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 21: From an Old Friend
To the Parole Board,
I am writing this letter to express my unwavering support for the parole of my longtime friend, [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. We have been friends since childhood.
I have witnessed his personal transformation throughout his incarceration. He actively seeks therapy and has become dedicated to his rehabilitation. He is eager to turn his life around. I will support his transition from prison to civilian life.
I will always have a place for him and a way to help him get back on his feet. I want to make sure he is ready for his new path. I support his plea for parole.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 22: From a Mentor
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to you today to voice my support for the parole of my mentee, [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]. He actively listens to me and seeks advice.
Since becoming his mentor, he has become dedicated to changing his life. He has become a better person and is actively seeking knowledge on becoming a better person. If he is released I would want to provide him guidance along the way. I will continue to mentor him and help him achieve his goals.
He promises to seek employment, guidance, and therapy to ensure that he does not revert to his old ways. Thank you for your support and time.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 23: From a Parent
To the Parole Board,
I am writing to you today to support my child, [Inmate’s Full Name], inmate number [Inmate Number], for parole. I am his parent.
I always knew he was a good kid, he just needed to be surrounded by a new crowd. He has found faith while incarcerated and is now the man that he was always meant to be. As his parent, I will support him and love him.
If parole is approved, he has plans to come back home and start new. He has changed and will be an active member of the community.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] - Sample 24: Focus on Personal Growth
To the Parole Board,
I am writing in support of [Inmate’s Name], inmate number [Inmate Number]’s request for parole. My name is [Your Name] and I have been working with [Inmate’s Name] to improve himself.
I have been there for [Inmate’s Name] every step of the way as he seeks to better himself. He has impressed me through his time in the program and I believe that the parole is well deserved.
If parole is granted he has a bright future ahead of him. He knows his goals and knows how to get there.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
In conclusion, a well-written parole support letter can significantly increase an inmate’s chances of being granted parole. By focusing on specific examples of positive change, demonstrating a clear understanding of the inmate’s rehabilitation efforts, and offering concrete support upon release, you can create a compelling argument for their reintegration into society. Remember to be honest, sincere, and professional in your communication.
