A Comparative Analysis of Release, Supervision, and Revocation in Systems Without Discretionary Parole

• In Event: Prisoner Reentry: Structure and Practice

Abstract

The Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice has studied discretionary parole release in the United States for several years, and is now examining jurisdictions that have abandoned this form of release in favor of “determinate” sentencing. A report is under production that will survey the history of parole abolition, as well as release, supervision, and revocation practices in determinate jurisdictions through legal research. One particular focus of this volume is on laws and policies such as good time and disciplinary time that may, in effect, engender discretion in prison release. The final publication will also describe unique aspects of each system, particularly innovations that resulted from the transition to non-discretionary release. This presentation will provide highlights from the monograph, and discuss its utility as a timely and useful reference for academics and practitioners alike.

Authors

• Alexis Lee Watts, University of Minnesota Law

• Edward E. Rhine, The Ohio State University

• Kevin R. Reitz, University of Minnesota Law; Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice