Parole Supervision for life (PSL) is a mandatory sentence in New Jersey for those convicted of certain sex crimes. The sentence requires that the convicted person remain in the legal custody of the Commissioner of Corrections and undergo supervision by the State Parole Board for a minimum of 15 years. During that time, supervising parole officers are given wide-ranging authority to restrict a convicted person’s day-to-day activities. For example, an officer may limit their ability to travel out of state, impose daily curfews, and limit their access to computers and the Internet while they serve their sentence.
If you are facing PSL, the legal team at Keith Oliver Criminal Law is here to help you understand and exercise your full legal rights. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Read on to learn more about PSL in New Jersey.
What Offenses Can Result in Parole Supervision for Life in New Jersey?
A PSL sentence commences immediately upon release from incarceration. A wide variety of sexual offenses can result in PSL, including:
- Sexual assault
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Aggravated criminal sexual assault
- Leading a child pornography network
- Enticing or luring a child to commit a crime against or with the child
- Kidnapping someone under 16 years old if, during the kidnapping, the offender commits or attempts to commit certain sex crimes or sell the victim for monetary gain
- Endangering a child’s welfare by engaging in sexual conduct that would impair or debauch the morals of the child; photographing a child participating in or simulating a prohibited sexual act; or creating, possessing, and distributing child pornography.
Penalties and Fines for Violating Parole Supervision for Life in New Jersey
Violating a condition of PSL for life can lead to very serious legal consequences. A violation without good cause is considered a crime of the third degree, which may be punished by 3-5 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000. Imprisonment is mandatory unless the presiding court is convinced that the need to deter this kind of conduct and the interest in public safety is clearly outweighed by the injustice of further jail time.
How Can I Be Released from Parole Supervision for Life?
A person sentenced to PSL may petition the Superior Court to have the sentence suspended. The judge may only grant the petition for release if it can be shown by “clear and convincing” evidence that the petitioner has not committed a crime for 15 years since their last conviction or release from incarceration. The evidence must also show that the petitioner is not likely to pose a threat to the safety of others if released from parole supervision.
Contact Keith Oliver Criminal Law for Help Understanding Your Rights
Parole supervision for life (PSL) is a harsh penalty in New Jersey that can severely limit your personal freedom and day-to-day activities for decades after you are released from incarceration. That said, in some cases, the restrictions imposed by this sentence can be reduced. If you believe you may be eligible, contact Keith Oliver Criminal Law for a free, confidential consultation today. Our legal team is here to make sure you understand your full rights and options.
