A “Sample Letter To The Texas Parole Board” is a letter written to support or oppose an inmate’s release. People write these letters to share their thoughts with the board. This helps the board make an informed decision. It’s used when someone wants to voice their opinion about an inmate’s potential parole.
Writing to the Texas Parole Board can feel daunting. You want to get it right. You want to make a real impact. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We’re sharing templates and examples in this article. These samples will make writing easier. Use them to craft your own powerful letter.
Sample Letter To The Texas Parole Board
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles
[Address of Parole Board]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Letter of Support for Parole of [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ Number: [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]
Dear Members of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles,
I am writing to express my strong support for the parole of [Inmate’s Full Name], TDCJ Number [Inmate’s TDCJ Number]. I have known [Inmate’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your relationship to the inmate: e.g., friend, family member, mentor].
During this time, I have observed [him/her] to be [Positive qualities: e.g., a responsible, caring, and remorseful individual]. I am aware of the crime [he/she] committed, and I understand the seriousness of the offense. However, I believe that [he/she] has taken significant steps to rehabilitate [himself/herself] while incarcerated.
[Provide specific examples of rehabilitation efforts. Examples: completed educational programs, participated in therapy, demonstrated good behavior, expressed remorse].
I am confident that [Inmate’s Name] is genuinely committed to making positive changes in [his/her] life. Upon release, [he/she] plans to [Outline inmate’s plans for housing, employment, and continued rehabilitation]. I am prepared to offer [him/her] [Specific support you will provide: e.g., housing, transportation, job assistance, emotional support].
I believe that granting parole to [Inmate’s Name] would be a positive step, allowing [him/her] to contribute to society and become a productive member of the community. I urge you to give [his/her] case your most careful consideration.
Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To The Texas Parole Board
Subject Line: Brevity is Key
The subject line should be concise and unambiguous. Immediately identify the inmate and their TDCJ number. For instance:
- Example: Parole Support for Inmate John Doe, TDCJ# 1234567
Avoid overly verbose or emotional language. Clarity is paramount.
Salutation: Respect and Formality
Address the Board with appropriate deference. A simple, yet respectful salutation is ideal.
- Acceptable: “Dear Members of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles,”
- Acceptable: “To the Honorable Members of the Board,”
Steer clear of overly familiar or casual greetings. Maintain a professional demeanor throughout.
Introduction: State Your Purpose with Alacrity
Clearly articulate your purpose in the opening paragraph; don’t bury the lede. State why you are writing and your relationship to the inmate.
- “I am writing to express my unwavering support for the parole of John Doe, TDCJ# 1234567. I am his spouse/parent/sibling/friend.”
- “It is with earnest sincerity that I advocate for the release of John Doe, TDCJ# 1234567, for whom I have been a mentor/employer/spiritual advisor.”
This establishes your perspective immediately.
Body Paragraphs: Substantiate Your Support with Specifics
This section is the crux of your letter. Provide concrete examples of the inmate’s positive attributes, rehabilitation efforts, and plans for the future.
- Highlight participation in educational programs, vocational training, or therapy sessions.
- Detail the inmate’s remorse for their actions and acceptance of responsibility.
- Outline the inmate’s post-release plans, including housing, employment, and support systems.
- Emphasize any positive changes you have observed in the inmate’s behavior or attitude.
- Share specific anecdotes illustrative of the inmate’s character or potential.
Avoid generalizations; specificity lends credence to your claims. Focus on demonstrable progress, not mere platitudes.
Addressing Concerns: Acknowledge and Rebut
Acknowledge any potential concerns the Board might have regarding the inmate’s release. Address these concerns directly and offer counterarguments or assurances.
- If the crime was particularly heinous, express your understanding of the community’s pain and emphasize the inmate’s genuine remorse.
- If there is a history of substance abuse, highlight the inmate’s participation in recovery programs and ongoing support network.
- If there are concerns about the inmate’s ability to reintegrate into society, detail the specific steps they have taken to prepare for a law-abiding life.
Demonstrate that you have considered these issues thoughtfully and are confident in the inmate’s ability to succeed.
Closing: Reinforce Your Plea with Gravitas
Reiterate your support for the inmate’s parole in a strong and decisive concluding paragraph.
- “I implore the Board to grant John Doe parole, affording him the opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to rehabilitation and contribute positively to society.”
- “I firmly believe that John Doe has undergone a profound transformation and is deserving of a second chance. I respectfully request that the Board approve his parole.”
End on a note of hope and conviction, leaving the Board with a lasting impression of your unwavering support.
Sign-Off: Professional Courtesy
Conclude with a professional and courteous sign-off.
- Acceptable: “Sincerely,”
- Acceptable: “Respectfully,”
- Acceptable: “With Gratitude,”
Followed by your full name and contact information. This ensures the Board can reach you if they require further clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letters to the Texas Parole Board
Submitting a letter to the Texas Parole Board can significantly impact an offender’s chances of being granted parole. This FAQ section provides essential information to guide you in crafting an effective letter of support or opposition.
What information should I include in my letter of support?
Your letter should clearly state your relationship to the offender, your knowledge of their offense, your belief in their rehabilitation, and specific reasons why you believe they deserve parole. Details about their positive behavior in prison and plans for their life after release are also crucial.
What should I avoid including in my letter?
Avoid making excuses for the offender’s crime, blaming the victim, or making unrealistic promises. Do not include confidential information or anything that could jeopardize the offender’s safety or the safety of others. Inflammatory language and personal attacks are also inappropriate.
How should I address the Texas Parole Board?
Address the letter to “Members of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.” Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the letter.
Should I send original letters or copies?
Submitting original letters is generally preferred. If sending copies, ensure they are clear and legible.
What is the deadline for submitting letters?
While there isn’t a strict deadline, it’s best to submit your letter well in advance of the offender’s parole review date to allow the board ample time to consider your input. Contact the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or the Parole Board for specific information regarding the offender’s case.
Related: