☀️ LONE STAR PAROLE SOLUTIONS ← Back to Home
☀️

Common Questions About Texas Parole

We know you have questions. We've answered the most common ones below in simple, plain language. Click any question to see the answer.

When Can My Loved One Come Home?

How do I know when my loved one is eligible for parole?

It depends on the type of crime and how long the sentence is.

  • Non-3G offenses (most crimes): Eligible after serving 25% of the sentence OR 15 years, whichever is less.
  • 3G offenses (serious/violent crimes like murder, sexual assault, aggravated robbery): Must serve 50% of the sentence in flat time — meaning actual days behind bars. Good time and work time don't count toward this minimum.
  • Aggravated offenses: Same 50% flat time rule as 3G.

Use our free eligibility calculator to check your loved one's estimated date.

What is a 3G offense?

3G offenses are the most serious crimes under Texas law. They include:

  • Murder and capital murder
  • Sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault
  • Aggravated robbery
  • Aggravated kidnapping
  • Indecency with a child
  • Some drug offenses involving large amounts

The full list is in Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 42A.054. If your loved one has a 3G offense, they must serve at least half their sentence in flat time (actual days) before they can see the parole board.

Not sure if your loved one's offense is 3G? Start your intake — we'll help figure it out.

What's the difference between flat time, good time, and work time?

Flat time = actual days your loved one has been locked up. Real calendar days.

Good time = credits earned for good behavior.

Work time = credits earned for working while in prison.

Here's what matters: For 3G and aggravated offenses, only flat time counts toward parole eligibility. Good time and work time don't reduce the minimum they have to serve.

For non-3G offenses, all three types of time may help reach eligibility sooner.

⚠️ The percentages TDCJ shows on their records can be confusing and misleading. Don't rely on them alone.

My loved one was denied parole. Can they try again?

Yes. A denial (called a "set-off") is not the end. The parole board will set a new review date — usually 1 to 5 years later, depending on the case.

Many people get parole on their second or third try. The key is submitting a stronger packet the next time — more support letters, a better reentry plan, and evidence of continued progress in prison.

We offer a discounted retry rate of $249 because we don't abandon families after a denial.

What Goes in a Parole Packet?

What is a parole packet and why does it matter?

A parole packet is the collection of documents submitted to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles on behalf of your loved one. The board never meets the inmate in person — the packet IS the entire case.

That's why it matters so much. A well-organized, professional packet can be the difference between coming home and staying locked up.

What should be included in a parole packet?

A strong parole packet typically includes:

  • Professional cover sheet — first impressions matter
  • Table of contents — makes it easy for the board to review
  • Accomplishments summary — education, certs, work history, programs completed
  • Personal letter from the inmate — showing accountability, growth, and future plans
  • Support letters — from family, employers, clergy, sponsors (targeted to what the board looks for)
  • Employer commitment letters — proof of a job waiting
  • Reentry plan — housing, employment, treatment, supervision, support network
  • Hearing preparation guide — if a family member will speak to the board

We build all of this for you. Start your intake →

How much do parole lawyers charge?

Parole attorneys typically charge $1,500 to $5,000 per case. Some charge as much as $20,000 for complex cases.

Our service is $299 — that's 70-80% less than hiring a lawyer. We use AI to help you build a professional-grade packet in days, not months.

Important: We are NOT lawyers and we don't provide legal advice. For complex legal situations, we always recommend consulting with a licensed Texas attorney.

What makes a good support letter?

The parole board wants to see that your loved one has people who believe in them and will help them succeed on the outside. A good support letter should:

  • Be specific — not just "they're a good person" but concrete examples
  • Address the board's concerns — housing, employment, supervision, community ties
  • Show commitment — what will YOU do to help them succeed?
  • Be honest — the board sees through fluff
  • Be respectful — professional tone, proper formatting

We provide 5 customized support letter templates as part of our service, targeted to what the parole board actually looks for.

How Does the Parole Board Work?

How does the Texas parole board make decisions?

The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles reviews cases in 3-person panels: one commissioner and two board members. They're divided by region.

The panel reviews the inmate's file, the parole packet, and any other materials submitted. They look at:

  • Nature and severity of the offense
  • Time served and behavior in prison
  • Programs completed
  • Reentry plan strength
  • Support system
  • Risk to public safety

The board's guidelines focus heavily on negative factors — things that block parole. That's why a strong packet that highlights the positives is so important. It gives the board reasons to say yes.

Can a family member speak at the parole hearing?

Yes! One family member or supporter can speak to the parole board on behalf of the inmate. You do NOT need a lawyer to do this.

Most families don't know this is an option, or they don't feel prepared. We include a hearing preparation guide in every packet to help whoever speaks feel confident and ready.

Do I need a lawyer for parole?

An attorney is not required for the parole process. Many families successfully navigate parole without one.

What you DO need is a well-organized, professional packet. That's where we come in. We help you build everything the board needs to see — at a fraction of what a lawyer charges.

For complex cases (3G offenses, cases with victims, multiple denials), we recommend also consulting with a licensed attorney.

About Lone Star Parole Solutions

What do I get for $299?

Everything you need to build a professional parole packet:

  • ✅ AI eligibility analysis
  • ✅ Complete document checklists
  • ✅ 5 customized support letter templates
  • ✅ Hearing preparation guide
  • ✅ Full packet assembly walkthrough
  • ✅ AI-powered speed — days, not weeks

Payment plans are available — we don't want cost to be a barrier.

Start your intake now →

Are you a law firm?

No. Lone Star Parole Solutions is an informational technology service provided by AIO Inc. We are NOT a law firm, we are NOT attorneys, and we do NOT provide legal advice.

We help families organize information and prepare materials. For specific legal questions about your case, always consult a licensed Texas attorney.

Can you guarantee my loved one will get parole?

No — and be careful of anyone who tells you they can. Only the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles decides who gets parole.

What we CAN do is help you put your loved one's best foot forward with a professional, well-organized packet. A strong packet gives them the best possible chance.

How long does it take to get my packet?

Your packet is ready immediately. As soon as you complete the intake and payment, you can print your parole packet right away.

No waiting days or weeks like with a lawyer. Fill out the intake, pay, and print — it's that fast.

Ready to Help Your Loved One Come Home?

Start your parole packet today. It takes about 10 minutes to fill out the intake form.

Start Your Intake — $299

Payment plans available.

⚠️ Educational Only: This information is for educational purposes only. This is NOT legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For your specific situation, consult a licensed Texas attorney. Terms · Privacy