Parole After Felony Assault Convictions in Texas

A Beginner’s Guide to Parole Eligibility and Process for Assault Cases

If you or a loved one has been convicted of felony assault in Texas, the next question is often:
“How soon can they get out on parole?”
“Is parole automatic?”
“What are the rules and conditions?”

While the prison sentence may be defined by the court, when and how someone is released is controlled by the Texas parole system — and that process is complex, often misunderstood, and deeply impacted by the nature of the offense.

In this guide, we’ll break down how parole works after felony assault convictions in Texas, including eligibility rules, timeframes, conditions, and why a knowledgeable attorney near you can help protect your path to early release.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide:

• What parole is and how it works in Texas
• How parole eligibility is calculated for felony assault cases
• Special rules for “3g offenses” like aggravated assault
• Parole conditions, revocations, and violations
• How a lawyer near you can help you navigate the parole process

What Is Parole?

Parole is the supervised release of a prisoner before their full sentence is served. It’s not automatic — it must be granted by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, and it comes with strict conditions and supervision requirements.

A person on parole is still technically serving their sentence — just outside of prison, under state supervision.

Which Assault Convictions Are Eligible for Parole?

Almost all felony convictions — including third-degree, second-degree, and first-degree assault charges — are technically parole eligible in Texas, but the timing and eligibility rules differ depending on the offense.

Non-Aggravated Felony Assault:

• Eligible for parole after serving one-quarter (25%) of the sentence, including good conduct time

Aggravated Assault or “3g Offenses” (Tex. Code Crim. Proc. Art. 42A.054):

• Parole eligibility only after serving 50% of sentence, and good time credits do not count toward early eligibility

See: Sentencing Guidelines for Felony Assault and Aggravated Assault

What Are “3g Offenses” in Texas?

Texas designates certain serious felonies as “3g offenses,” which have stricter parole rules.

Common 3g Assault Charges Include:

• Aggravated Assault – Serious Bodily Injury
• Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
• Injury to a Child, Elderly, or Disabled Person (in some cases)
• Family Violence Assault – Strangulation (felony level)

In these cases, you must serve at least 50% of your sentence before becoming parole eligible — and early release is less likely.

Learn more in: Assault with a Deadly Weapon Charges in Texas and Injury to a Child, Elderly, or Disabled Person in Texas Assault Cases

How Is Parole Eligibility Calculated?

Type of FelonyEligibility TimelineNotesThird-Degree Felony (non-3g)25% of sentenceIncludes good conduct timeSecond-Degree (non-3g)25% of sentenceGood time applies3g Offense (Aggravated Assault, etc.)50% of sentenceGood time does not applyFirst-Degree Felony (3g)50% of sentence minimumSome offenses not eligible for parole at all (rare cases)

Example: A 10-year sentence for non-3g Assault may allow parole eligibility at 2.5 years with good time, but for 3g offenses, eligibility is only after 5 years served.

How Does the Parole Process Work?

Step 1: Eligibility Determined

• TDCJ calculates parole eligibility date based on sentencing type

Step 2: Parole Review Begins

• The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles reviews your case
• File includes prison behavior, criminal history, victim impact statements, and more

Step 3: Vote by Board Members

• A panel of 3 board members votes on parole approval or denial
• Decision can include: Grant, Deny, Set-Off (next review in 1–5 years)

What Factors Affect Parole Approval?

• Nature and severity of the offense
• Use of a weapon or injury level
• Family violence designation
• In-prison conduct and disciplinary record
• Parole plan (housing, employment, support system)
• Victim input or opposition to release

A strong parole packet — prepared with the help of an attorney near you — can greatly increase the chance of early release.

What Conditions Come With Parole?

• Monthly reporting to a parole officer
• Drug or alcohol testing
• Curfews or GPS monitoring
• No contact with the victim
• No travel without permission
• Mandatory employment or education

Violating these terms can result in parole revocation and re-incarceration.

Can Parole Be Revoked?

Yes. If you violate any conditions — or are accused of new criminal conduct — the Board can revoke your parole, and you may return to prison to serve the remainder of your sentence.

Parolees are entitled to a revocation hearing, and a lawyer near you can fight to prevent you from going back into custody.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Near You Helps With Parole

The fight for your freedom doesn’t end at sentencing — it continues during parole.

A knowledgeable attorney near you can:

• Negotiate sentencing terms that improve parole chances
• Help prepare a compelling parole plan and packet
• Advocate for parole approval before the board
• Defend you during parole revocation hearings
• Challenge parole eligibility miscalculations

At Walker Law Office, we work with clients and families in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Galveston County to fight for early release, fair supervision terms, and second chances after felony assault convictions.

Final Thoughts: Parole Is a Lifeline — But Not a Guarantee

Texas parole law is complex, strict, and often unforgiving. But with the right preparation, guidance, and advocacy, it’s possible to turn a prison sentence into a path back to your life and loved ones.

Don’t wait until it’s too late — consult with a criminal defense attorney near you who understands both trial and post-conviction strategy.

Call Walker Law Office today at (713) 228-2611 or visit https://www.walkerlawhouston.com/contact/ to speak with a parole-savvy criminal defense attorney near you.

‍