Questions To Ask Your Federal Prison Consultant

Being incarcerated in a federal facility can be an overwhelming and confusing experience. One of the best ways to make the transition easier is to work with a federal prison consultant. A prison consultant can provide invaluable insight and advice on how to navigate the complex bureaucratic system of the federal prison system. 

Before hiring a consultant, however, it is important to ask some key questions. Here are a few important ones.

What Services Do They Provide? 

Before hiring a consultant, ensure they offer all the services you need. Most consultants specialize in certain areas, such as pre-sentencing assistance or help with parole issues. Pre-sentencing consultants, for example, can provide information about the sentencing guidelines and other related advice. They help you understand what that process could be like for you as you await your sentencing date.

On the other hand, parole consultants provide advice and assistance with parole hearings and preparing evidence packages for presentation to a parole board. This can be extremely helpful for those hoping to be released early.

Other services may include help with filing appeals, finding resources, and even helping you adjust to life after release. It's important to find out exactly what services they offer so you can decide if you have anything to gain by working with them.

What Are Their Fees?

Another important question to ask is what their fees are for their services. The amount of fees charged by consultants varies from person to person and depends on the complexity of your case and other factors.

For example, some consultants may charge a flat fee for their services, while others will charge an hourly rate. The fees might cover things like correspondence, court appearances, document preparation, and other services.

Make sure that you understand what services are included in their fee structure and any additional costs that may arise during your consultation process.

Do They Have Experience With Federal Prison Systems?

You need to make sure that your consultant has experience working with federal prisons specifically — not just state prisons or jails. The laws and regulations involved in federal prisons differ significantly from those governing state facilities, so it is vital that your consultant knows how to navigate these complexities properly before they start working with you.

That way, you can rest assured knowing that they will be able to provide accurate information and advice tailored specifically to your unique situation.

For example, a consultant who specializes in state prisons may not be aware of the specialized programs and resources available only to those incarcerated in federal facilities. Therefore, they wouldn't be able to provide the same level of assistance that a consultant who is familiar with federal prisons could.