In the state of Missouri, we have many avenues to help people who commit crimes. Not every conviction needs to end in incarceration, and for many Americans, this is the case. The Bureau of Justice Statistics finds that over 3,745,000 adults in the United States are under probation or parole by the end of 2021. Through probation, charged criminals are released to the community and rehabilitated through the direction of a probation or parole officer, otherwise known as a PO.
For many people who are currently under parole or probation, there may be an opportunity to be rewarded for good behavior. Through an Early Discharge, the Parole Board or the court that sentenced you initially can review your conduct during your probationary period and determine whether you are rehabilitated or not. Obtaining an Early Discharge would certainly require effort on your part. If you’re on probation or parole and need help navigating your current situation, we highly recommend hiring a criminal defense attorney, especially a probation lawyer. After that, there are still a few more things you can do to help shorten your probation sentence.
Comply With Probation Orders
Exactly what directives your probation officer gives you typically depends on the details of your case, but there are a few general rules that everyone on parole must follow:
- You must report your address to your PO, and you cannot change your residence without their notice and permission.
- You must alert your parole officer before traveling outside of your area. This includes both in-state and out-of-state travel.
- You must be employed or involved in an approved program, and you must report any career changes to your PO before making them.
Pay Off All Fees
Often times, a convicted person will have court fees, fines, and restitution costs after their conviction. It is very important you pay those debts as soon as you can. Having those fees paid off might not shorten your probation term on its own, but doing your due diligence demonstrates to the courts that you are reformed.
Avoid Breaking the Law
The point of allowing people to serve their sentence in the community via probation is to give them a chance to rehabilitate. The last thing you would want to do in this situation is get involved in another crime. The courts and the Parole Board are looking for good behavior when they decide to shorten a parole sentence.
Collect Earned Compliance Credits
Introduced into Missouri Law in 2012, the Earned Compliance Credit system which helps most shorten their time on probation or parole by 30-days for every 30-days that the individual is compliant with the terms of their probation or parole. To put it plainly, people on probation or parole are awarded one month off their sentence for every month that they are in full compliance with their probation in this statewide program. It’s extremely valuable to see if you are eligible for these credits and start working towards a closer release date.
Call the Law Office of Chris Miller for Your Probation Needs
If you or someone you love is on probation or parole, it should be taken very seriously. Whether you’ve just started probation, want help shortening your sentence, or have broken your parole order, get in contact with the Law Office of Chris Miller. Our legal team has years of experience, and we will fight hard for your desired outcome. Give us a call today for a free consult!