• Lesson • FOUR

The Components of a Parole Packet "1- 2- 3"

This short lesson delivers only a general idea of how to construct a parole packet along with how to best compose a series of support letters and other pertinent information based on the inmate's unique situation. However, we offer an excellent product that covers parole packeting building and other important materials to assist with the family effort.

Rule number one, start early on the projects, at least a minimum of one year prior to the eligibility date.

Rule number two, never be afraid to ask for help in writing your own support letter(s). It can be an emotional time and your emotions can interfere with the message you want to send to the parole board. Writing "Johnny is a good boy" will not cut it. The parole members/commissioners read these "no substance" type letters everyday.

Rule number three, make sure that those who compose letters of support are informed about the individual and their individual circumstances. The “raw deal” he or she got in court or the attorney representation lacked competence has no relevance to the Board’s decision and may even obscure the facts that are pertinent to the decision.

Tip The quality of the parole packet and supporting documents are not judged by its volume or overall weight. Keep content factual and concise. Refrain from being overly zealous in your attempt to persuade the voting members.

Lets backup a moment and begin with what a parole packet is and why it is necessary to create one. The parole packet is designed to assist the voting board members to understand that the inmate under consideration has strong support from family and friends. A plan of action has been drafted an assigned. And that this support group collectively will help this person back to their feet when time comes for parole. In general, the support letters will show conclusive evidence that time served, life adjustment and changed responsibilities all indicate that the loved one is ready to be paroled.

When you stop to think about it, you can not expect to convince and persuade a voting board member or any audience unless you present your argument or point of view in a coherent manner. Every support letter needs a factual beginning, convincing middle and a conclusive or persuasive ending.

A typical parole packet can include any or all of the following sections:

Parole Packet Sections         The Cover Page   A Few Tasteful Family Photos A Transmittal Letter   Letters of Potential Employment The Table of Contents   Detail Parole Plan and Goal Setting Parole Guideline Self Assessment   Inmate's Current Resume Most Current TDCJ Time sheet   Accomplishments Prior to Incarceration Self Support Letters to the Board   Accomplishments During Incarceration Immediate Family Support Letters   Other Valuable Information Secondary Family & Friends Support   Formal Request to Speak to the Board Favorable Military Records   Criminal Offense with Rehabilitation Letter from a Family Minister or Priest   Last Minute Letter to Voting Member

(A full explanation of each section is identified in the purchased product)

There are not any rules or regulations concerning support letters, only guidelines and suggestions. Each Inmate and family support member must create information that fits his own unique situation.

The Basic Guidelines to Follow in your Support for the Inmate: 1. The relationship to the inmate. 2. How long you have known the Inmate. 3. Show how the Inmate will be a useful and law abiding citizen in the community. 4. Your belief, that despite his mistakes, He is a good person, show solid examples. 5. Describe improvements in the inmates attitude, behavior and accomplishments 6. If providing housing, give the address and telephone number. 7. Identify any financial, employment or transportation support you are capable of providing.

Things You Should Not Include in a Support Letter (Ideas from an ex Parole Board Member) 1. Getting too emotional in your letters. 2. Rambling on about the same thing, providing no true substance in the letter. 3. From young children pleading "daddy please come home, I miss and need you ..." 4. "The TDCJ has incarcerated him far too long . . .and this is unjust " 5. How he has enormous family responsibilities to full-fill once he gets out.. 6. Of course begging and pleading to the voting members. 7. The Inmate has "Found Jesus" while incarcerated in your system. 8. A member of the family is dying, we now need his help . . . 9. Blaming others for his crimes. 10. Do not lie about anything in any support letter you send. Most obvious, most damaging.

Key Points for Effective Letter Writing

1. Be brief. Keep your letter short and to the point.

2. Be factual. Identify yourself and give the name of the offender on whose behalf you are writing. Provide the details how you know this person.

3. Be polite. Take care not to express yourself in a way that may appear aggressive or offensive. Tact and diplomacy are especially important when dealing with the voting members of the board.

4. Be positive. Write on the basis that the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole is open to reason and to discussion.

5. If appropriate, please explain who you are and what you do. This indicates that the letter is genuine, and also shows the voting board members that you really do care.

Support Letter Ideas

1. Support letters first and foremost need to be honest in context. Identify the crime committed and why it happened (drugs, alcohol, relationship, etc). Show how time served and prison adjustment to reflect on the offense to show remorse for prior actions. Identify work and life skills received during incarceration along with program completions and certificates obtained.

2. Support letters from the lead sponsor should discuss living arrangements for the offender and how he or she will ensure the offender will secure employment and follow all parole stipulations. Basic needs such as clothing, finances and even transportation are secondary considerations but can be addressed.

3. Letters from the community church where the offender will attend are powerful reminders to the board that a strong support chain is there to assist this person.

4. Potential employment letters show strong evidence that the lead sponsor is trying to secure stability in the person’s life and will carry weight when read by the voting members.

5. Writing support letters that draw upon strong conclusions and evidence of positive change with honesty and integrity will help frame the minds of the voting members.