A conviction that comes with the consequence of Parole Supervision for Life—or PSL—is nothing to take lightly. Previously known as “Community Supervision for Life”—or CSL—can significantly impact your life.

Parole already carries a hefty consequence, but Parole for Life doesn’t end. Just like it sounds, it means you are on parole for the rest of your existence.

Here is everything you need to know about Parole Supervision for Life (PSL):

What Leads to Parole Supervision for Life (PSL)?

Several convictions result in receiving Parole for Life. Under Section 2C:43-6.4 of the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, Parole Supervision for Life (PSL) is a mandatory component for a sex offense conviction.

The following are crimes that lead to Parole Supervision for Life (PSL):

  • Kidnapping (pursuant to Section 2C:13-1.c(2)),
  • Aggravated sexual assault,
  • Sexual assault,
  • Aggravated criminal sexual conduct,
  • Luring,
  • Endangering the welfare of a child by engaging in sexual conduct by 1)engaging in sexual conduct which impairs or debauches the morals of the child; 2) causing or permitting a child to engage in a prohibited sexual act to create child pornography; 3) photographing a child in a prohibited sexual act; 4) distributing or possessing child pornography with intent to distribute; 5) storing, maintaining or using a file sharing program to access an item depicting sexual exploitation or abuse of a child; or 6) possessing 1,000 or more items of child pornography, or
  • Attempt to commit any of those above.

Terms of PSL

When you are convicted and receive Parole Supervision for Life (PSL), you will be carefully watched in every aspect of your life once you are released from prison by a parole officer. You must seek approval for many tasks and occurrences that the average person can freely do.

For example, the terms of Parole Supervision for Life can include:

  • Daily curfews
  • Regular meetings with the parole officer
  • Unannounced visits by the parole officer
  • Searches of belongings, car, and residence
  • Notifying the parole officer immediately of any arrest, or issuance of a complaint, summons, or temporary or final restraining order
  • Prohibition from contact with the victim(s) of the offense
  • Prohibition from using any computer and/or device to create any social networking profile or to access any social networking service or chat room
  • Prohibition from owning or possessing a gun or other weapons
  • Obtaining the parole officer’s permission as to where the individual lives and who they live with
  • Obtaining the parole officer’s permission to travel outside of New Jersey
  • Obtaining parole officer’s permission to accept an employment offer or business opportunity or to do volunteer work
  • Notifying the parole officer immediately of any loss of employment
  • Submitting to drug or alcohol testing, medical or psychological exams, or community or residential counseling or treatment programs as directed by the parole officer
  • Submitting to annual polygraph tests

Penalties for Failure to Comply with PSL

Violation of a person’s Parole Supervision for Life conditions is a Crime in New Jersey. If you fail to comply with Parole Supervision for Life (PSL), your parole may be revoked. A violation of PSL could result in a third-degree crime if the sex act were committed on or after July 1, 2014. The crime is considered fourth degree if the violation occurred before July 1, 2014.

In order for a person to be found guilty of violating a condition of Parole Supervision for Life, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the following elements: (1) that the defendant was subject to conditions imposed upon him by a special sentence of Parole Supervision for Life: (2) that the defendant knowingly violated a condition imposed on him as a result of a special sentence of Parole Supervision for Life; (3) that the defendant did not have good cause to violate the alleged condition.

The third-degree crime carries a penalty of up to 5 years in prison and an associated $15,000 fine. The fourth-degree conviction carries up to 18 years in prison with a $10,000 fine. The presumption of imprisonment can be passed only if the court is convinced the interest of justice outweighs deterring the continued crime for public safety i.e., a manifest injustice would exist if you went to prison.

Can I Get Released from PSL?

Yes, it is possible with the right legal team. At The Bianchi Law Group, we are aggressive defenders of your rights. We deeply understand the legal system, being a team of former prosecutors.

Generally speaking, to get off Parole Supervision for Life/PSL, a person must not have committed a crime for 15 years from the date of their last conviction or release from custody, whichever is later, and that You are not likely to pose a threat to the safety of others in the community if released from parole supervision. The ultimate decision is up to the judge.

I’ve Been Accused of a Crime that Requires Parole Supervision for Life (PSL) in New Jersey. What Do I Do Now?

It is essential to know that any crime that requires Parole Supervision for Life (PSL) in New Jersey is exceptionally serious and can result in you receiving life-changing penalties. Having the right legal team can provide you with the maximum benefits.

The Bianchi Law Group is comprised of a team of former prosecutors whose experience will provide you with a well-crafted defense. They will aggressively fight for your legal rights, not hesitate to bring your case to trial, and fight on your behalf to get you the best legal outcome possible. Having the proper legal defense in your corner can make all the difference.

Call the Bianchi Law Group today to discuss your case.

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