Parole Information & Advocacy
Parole Process - Initial Appearance
At an initial parole hearing, the commissioner reviews progress from incarceration to the present, including court-ordered requirements, institutional adjustment, education, and personal growth. Support letters and release plans are also considered. The decision focuses on readiness and public safety.
Parole Process - Reoccurring Appearance
The commissioner reviews progress since the last hearing, including completion of recommendations, behavior, programming, and growth. Updated support letters and plans are considered. Decision focuses on continued readiness and safety
Actions That Support Individuals
1. Write a Letter of Support:
Demonstrates community/family support and highlights the individual's character and readiness.
2. Request and Independent Investigator:
Advocate for fair application of Old Law Parole standards.
3. Support Treatment and Diversion (T.A.D) Programs
4. Support letters, decision focus, and show outside support
Lack of Oversight
The current system lacks transparency and meaningful recourse for individuals, but hopefully that will be different with the new chairman.
Support Letter - Guidance
Support letters may be written by family, community leaders, educators, institutional staff, and extended networks. Letters should include relationship, positive attributes, support plan, reintegration commitment, and contact information.
Accountability and Compliance
Agencies must follow Wisconsin laws consistently and be held accountable.
Where to Send Support Letters
Wisconsin Parole Commission
3099 Washington Avenue
PO BOX 7960
Madison, WI 53707-7960
Phone: 608-240-7280
Email: parolecommission@wisconsin.gov
How Parole Works: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Parole is an opportunity to complete your sentence in the community, staying connected with family while rebuilding your future. We are here to support you at every stage of the process.
STEP 01
STEP 02
STEP 03
STEP 04
Have questions about your specific situation? Let's talk.
Who May Be Eligible?
Parole eligibility in Wisconsin primarily applies to individuals sentenced under the state’s Old Law system (before Truth-in-Sentencing). In many cases, individuals may become eligible for parole after serving approximately 25% of their sentence, depending on the specific sentence and circumstances.
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However, eligibility does not guarantee release. The Parole Commission reviews each case individually, considering factors such as institutional behavior, program completion, and overall readiness to safely reintegrate into the community. In simple terms, parole is not just about time served—it is about demonstrating growth, accountability, and readiness to transition home under supervision.
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We can help you understand your specific eligibility status and prepare for the parole process with clarity and confidence.
Preparing for your Hearing
The key is having a strong plan. You'll need to gather documents about where you will live, potential work opportunities, and letters from your support system. We provide tools to help you organize these required documents.
What to Expect at Parole Hearings
The parole hearing is your opportunity to present your progress and demonstrate your readiness for release. The commissioner will review your institutional conduct, participation in required and voluntary programming, and overall efforts toward growth and accountability.
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You should be prepared to speak honestly about your past, take responsibility, and clearly explain the steps you have taken to change. It is also important to discuss your release plan, including housing, employment, and support systems, and how you will succeed in the community. Approach the hearing with honesty, preparation, and a clear commitment to moving forward.
Decisions & Next Steps
A favorable decision may result in parole being granted, allowing the individual to be released to community supervision. In some cases, the commissioner may defer the decision and schedule a return to parole at a later date to allow for additional progress, programming, or review.
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If parole is denied, the individual will receive written reasons for the decision and a future review date. While there is no formal appeal process, there is an opportunity to appear again and demonstrate continued growth and readiness for release. Regardless of the outcome, we remain committed to supporting individuals and families as they continue moving forward.