Understanding the Michigan Parole Board (and why you should not call them)
Want to help a loved one with parole in Michigan? The fastest path is knowing who does what—and who not to call. Here's how the Michigan Parole Board fits into the system, why MDOC says not to contact them about individual cases, and where to direct your questions instead.
The Michigan Parole Board decides whether to grant parole after someone has served their minimum sentence. Their work begins when a person becomes legally eligible - not when a family member calls to ask. The Board also recommends commutations and pardons to the Governor, though that's separate from regular parole decisions. Ten members appointed by the Director make up the Board.
MDOC's guidance makes clear that the Board actively reviews cases for safe release under current law. So even when it feels like nothing is happening, the Board is already reviewing eligible cases as they come up. The Parole Board sits under the Field Operations Administration (FOA) - which is why many parole questions get routed through FOA channels rather than directly to Board members.
Do not call the Parole Board: MDOC specifically tells the public not to contact the Michigan Parole Board to ask if a loved one can be considered for parole or early release.
Here's why: the Board is already reviewing cases that qualify for safe release under current law. Calling to ask for consideration won't move someone into the review process - eligibility and timing are determined by law and the Board's schedule. If you want to help, focus on reaching the right MDOC office for your specific question rather than trying to get the Board to take action.
For most parole-related questions, MDOC directs you to the appropriate agency listed on their contact page. Different parts of MDOC handle different parts of the process, so sending your question to the right place gets you faster answers. Central contact hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.
If your question involves parole or probation supervision - especially anything local or case-management related - FOA handles that. They're responsible for state parole and probation supervision, with offices in every county. That's why families often get directed to FOA or a local parole/probation office for practical, case-specific questions that aren't about asking the Board to grant parole.
- Start with the MDOC contact page - Use it to identify the appropriate agency for your specific question so you’re not stuck in the wrong inbox or phone queue.
- Direct supervision or local-case questions to FOA - FOA is responsible for state parole and probation supervision, and its parole/probation offices exist in every county.
- Keep the Parole Board out of “please consider them” requests - MDOC’s guidance is clear: do not contact the Michigan Parole Board to ask if your loved one can be considered for parole or early release.
Reminder: Even when you're stressed and looking for answers, MDOC's instruction is clear - don't call the Parole Board to request parole consideration or early release for an individual.
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