Parole represents a chance to return home and rebuild your life while completing your sentence under supervision in the community. But in South Carolina, parole is not guaranteed, and the hearing before the Board of Paroles and Pardons is a real opportunity that deserves serious preparation. At The Laubshire Law Firm, LLC, our criminal defense attorneys help individuals and their families in Columbia and across South Carolina approach parole hearings with the strongest possible presentation.
How Parole Works in South Carolina
Parole in South Carolina is administered by the South Carolina Board of Paroles and Pardons, a seven-member board appointed by the Governor. It is important to understand that parole is a privilege, not a right. The Board has broad discretion to grant or deny parole, and its decision is final.
When considering whether to grant parole, the Board looks at a range of factors, including:
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The record before and during incarceration
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Behavior while confined
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The nature of the offense
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Victim impact
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Evidence of rehabilitation and community support
Certain offenses are designated as no-parole offenses under South Carolina law, meaning those serving those sentences are not eligible for parole consideration and must instead complete a community supervision program before discharge.
What Happens at a Parole Hearing?
Parole hearings in South Carolina are conducted before the Board or a panel of the Board, with inmates typically appearing via videoconference from their correctional facility. You have the right to appear at your hearing, to be represented by an attorney, and to present witnesses and evidence on your behalf.
Victims of the offense also have the right to appear and speak or submit statements, which the Board will consider. The hearing moves quickly, which is why preparation matters so much. Walking into a parole hearing without a clear, organized presentation of your rehabilitation and your plan for life after release is a missed opportunity.
How the Right Defense Attorney Can Strengthen Your Parole Case
Having legal representation at a parole hearing is not required, but it can make a meaningful difference. An attorney can help you organize the strongest possible presentation, prepare supporting witnesses such as employers or family members, review the record the Board will consider for any errors or inaccuracies, and communicate effectively with the Board on your behalf.
Mr. Laubshire’s background as a former prosecutor and law enforcement officer gives him a clear understanding of how the justice system evaluates risk and rehabilitation, and he uses that knowledge to help clients make their best case for release.
Parole Violations and Revocation
If you are currently on parole and facing an allegation of violation, that situation also requires immediate attention. A parole revocation can send you back to prison to serve out the remainder of your sentence. Violations can stem from new criminal charges, missed appointments, a failed drug test, or other failures to comply with the conditions of your release. Our firm can represent you in parole violation proceedings and work to protect your ability to remain in the community.
Contact Our Columbia Parole Lawyers
Whether you are preparing for an upcoming parole hearing or facing a violation, The Laubshire Law Firm, LLC is ready to help. Contact us online or call 803-708-4755 to schedule a free consultation. We are available 24/7 and will work with you and your family to build the most effective presentation possible.
