Support Letters

Preparing a parole packet often involves including various support letters that can demonstrate the inmate’s readiness for reintegration into society, their support system, and any rehabilitation efforts they have made. These letters can play a critical role in the parole board’s decision-making process.

Each letter should be personal, specific, and positive, focusing on the inmate’s readiness for reintegration, changes in behavior or attitude, and the support system awaiting them. It’s also important to check with the specific parole board’s guidelines to ensure all requirements are met and that the packet is organized according to their standards. For more information on Parole Packets and a checklist of documents check out the “Parole Packet Downloads” section of the site.

If you’re interested in learning how ChatGPT can help write your letters: Using ChatGPT to Help Write Support Letters

Here are some types of support letters you might consider including in a parole packet:

1. Family Support Letters: Letters from family members can highlight the emotional and logistical support awaiting the inmate upon release. They can discuss the strength of family ties, plans for housing, and how the family will help the inmate adjust to life outside prison.
   • Example Family Support Letter (TDCJ): Family Support Letter Template (download a copy to edit)
2. Personal Letter from the Inmate: A personal letter from the inmate can be a crucial part of the parole packet. This letter allows the inmate to express remorse, discuss the lessons learned, outline future plans, and show a commitment to change.
   • Example Self Support Letter (TDCJ): Self Support Letter Template (download a copy to edit)
3. Employment Offers and Support Letters: Letters from potential employers or individuals willing to offer employment can be powerful. These letters should detail the job offer, expectations, and support the employer is willing to provide to help the inmate transition back into the workforce.
   • Example Employer Letter With Offer: Employer Offer Letter Template (download a copy to edit)
   • More information on Employment Letters: Understanding Employment Letters and Offers
4. Educational or Vocational Training Support Letters: If the inmate has participated in educational or vocational training programs, letters from instructors or program coordinators can demonstrate their commitment to personal development and readiness for employment.
   • Examples of support letters could include: program mentors, college teachers/professors, vocational advisors, vocational teachers or tutors
5. Community Support and Volunteer Program Letters: Letters from community organizations or leaders who are willing to support the inmate, either through mentorship, volunteering opportunities, or integration programs, can show the parole board that the inmate has a support network outside their immediate family.
   • Examples of support letters could include: organizations the inmate has volunteered with in the past, organizations they have been in contact with while incarcerated, organizations that support justice-impacted individuals, letters from members of the community where the inmate hopes to parole
6. Letters from Religious or Spiritual Advisors: For many inmates, spiritual or religious guidance plays a crucial role in their rehabilitation. Letters from pastors, rabbis, imams, or other spiritual leaders who have interacted with the inmate can provide insight into their moral and spiritual growth.
   • Example Religious/Spiritual Support Letter: Advisor Support Letter Template (download a copy to edit)
7. Letters from Therapists or Counselors: If the inmate has participated in counseling or therapy, letters from these professionals can highlight progress in addressing personal issues, mental health concerns, or substance abuse problems.
8. Letters from Inmates or Former Inmates: Sometimes, letters from fellow inmates or individuals who have successfully reintegrated into society after parole can offer a unique perspective on the inmate’s behavior, attitude changes, and readiness for parole.