Tens of thousands of incarcerated people are considered for parole in Texas each year, yet only a tiny fraction have access to representation. Counsel is critical: in our experience, representation increases the chance of success from about 33% to more than 80%. This presentation will provide an overview of the parole process in Texas, the positive impacts of representation, and the benefits to law firms of adding this important work to their pro bono practices. Participants will learn about the timeline of parole representation matters and the work required, including the basics of working with incarcerated clients, putting together a parole packet, and how administrative parole hearings work. Samples, guides, checklists, and other resources will be available for interested attorneys.
