Sample Inmate Self Support Letter to the Parole Board

If you have a friend or loved one who is incarcerated, they may have been advised that it would be helpful for them to write a letter of support to the parole board. While the following sample and guidelines should not be construed as legal advice, it might assist you in helping your friend or loved one know what to write in their letter to the parole board.

Please be aware that each state might have different guidelines regarding what the parole board looks for in a support letter (a good rule of thumb is to contact the prison where your loved one is an inmate and ask them for any guidelines they might offer). You might also consider checking the prison's website.

If you are seeking legal advice regarding parole, a prisoner's rights, or any other legal question regarding incarceration, please contact an attorney.

Many parole boards want the inmate's self-support letter to be written in the inmate's own handwriting, rather than typed up by someone else on the inmate's behalf. The letter should include all of inmate's information including your name, identification number, and prison address.

The next item in the inmate's self-support letter should be the date, which should be printed in the top left corner below the inmate's information. Next, the inmate should include the address of the parole board to whom he or she is writing.

Following is a sample self-support letter.

October 9, 2007

John Q. Smith
TDCJ#01234567
13055 FM 3522
Abilene, Texas 79601

Honorable Members of the Parole Board
Texas Board of Pardons and Parole
Amarillo Board Office
5809 S. Western, Suite 237
Amarillo, TX 79110

Dear Honorable Members of the Parole Board:

I am writing this letter to you for your consideration in approving my parole. My parole eligibility date is June 19, 2008.

I have not had any new cases and I have not lost any work time or good time. I have signed up for all required treatment programs. I have also signed up for Changes and Cognitive Intervention classes. I feel this will help me become more aware of my actions. I know what I did was wrong and I have every intention of never breaking the law again. I take full responsibility for committing Burglary of a Habitation. I have mentally put myself in my victim's shoes, and I understand what damage has been done. I would never want that to happen to me.

My goal when I get released is to gain employment as a welder at my father-in-law's business. I will also continue my education and study to receive an Associate's Degree in business.

I will be living with my sister and brother-in-law who will be giving me the financial and emotional help and support that I will need until I get up on my feet. My family will be able to provide me with transportation as well.

In conclusion, I am certain that with all I have learned from my incarceration and the support I have from my family and friends I will be able to make a positive transition back into the free world, never again to return to prison.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration for this review for my parole.

Sincerely,

John Q. Smith
TDCJ#01234567