FAQs
Here we try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
General Questions
What is Parole?
What is the Parole Board?
How does a prisoner apply for parole?
A prisoner does not apply for parole. A determinate sentence prisoner – one serving more than 4 years - has his case referred to the Board by the Scottish Ministers before the prisoner has served half of the sentence. A life prisoner has his case considered by a Tribunal of the Board as soon as possible after the punishment part set by the court has expired.
Is parole a reward for good behaviour in prison?
Do sex offenders get parole?
Will the Board release a prisoner who denies his/her guilt?
Prisoners' Questions
When do I qualify for consideration for early release on parole?
Can I opt out of the parole system?
When do I qualify for consideration for release on life licence?
Who writes the reports for my parole review dossier?
Do I get to see all the reports in my parole review dossier?
What if I don't agree with a report written about me?
When does a determinate sentence prisoner get interviewed by a Parole Board member?
Can I be legally represented when I am being interviewed by the member of the Parole Board?
What does the Parole Board take into account when considering my case?