The Prison Service, acting on behalf of the Department of Justice, starts the parole process by referring the case to the Commissioners for consideration approximately 6 months before the tariff expiry date (in the case of life sentenced and ICS prisoners) or the parole eligibility date (in the case of ECS prisoners).
Notice of referral
The Commissioners will write to the prisoner to let him/her know that the case has been referred to them by the Prison Service. The letter, known as the ‘Notice of Referral’, will list the dates by which certain things need to be done by the Prison Service and by the prisoner and/or his/her representative so that the case can be completed within the available time leading up to the tariff expiry or parole eligibility date.