When a defendant is sentenced to a term of imprisonment more than two years in length, their release from prison is subject to the direction of the New Zealand Parole Board. The role of the Parole Board is to assess whether the offender poses an undue risk to the community if released prior to their statutory release date. Where a prisoner is released on parole, they remain subject to release conditions until their statutory expiry date unless specified. The person serving their sentence on parole can be subject to being recalled back to prison.

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Marek has an extensive track record of successfully achieving release on parole and arguing against recall applications. Where it is considered that a client’s parole hearing should take place earlier than scheduled, you can also apply to have the hearing brought forward under section 26 of the Parole Act 2002.

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Marek and his team will work closely with clients and their support network in the community to ensure they have a stable and realistic safety and release plan prepared for the parole hearing. This should allow the Parole Board to gain a clear understanding of the client’s plans in the community upon release and so they can be satisfied that the client does not pose as an undue risk to the community if released. 

The Department of Corrections can prosecute people for breaching established conditions or sentences. Often negotiation with managing probation officers can assist clients to try avoid significant repercussions including potentially having their sentences cancelled (usually for a more severe penalty). If you are facing a breach, you need the right help and guidance to safely deal with Corrections and the Court process.