Correctional Facilities in British Columbia

Sentence Management Process

Calculation of sentence
When an offender is sentenced to custody, the correctional centre records officer provides the following information:

• How much remission can be earned on the sentence;
• When release may occur if the maximum remission is earned; and
• Parole eligibility date.

Classification and sentence planning
During the classification process, the classification officer interviews the inmate and prepares a risk/needs assessment. Supported by available information, the officer prepares a sentence management plan with the inmate, taking into consideration:

• Correctional history;
• Criminal history;
• Family concerns;
• Education and work record; and
• Individual needs identified in the risk/needs assessment.

In addition to placing the inmate into a designated facility, the plan outlines:

• Training and work opportunities that might be suitable;
• Areas where counselling should be provided;
• Support that may be required for release planning; and
• Dates when actions or reviews are to be initiated.

The sentence plan is used by corrections staff to work with the inmate. Inmates are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities that might include:

• Participating in programs; or
• Applying for conditional release, including parole.

As circumstances change, the sentence plan may be reviewed and altered at any time by a classification officer or case management co-ordinator.

Conditional release (parole) application
After serving one-third of a sentence, an inmate is eligible to apply for parole. Upon receipt of the inmate's application, a parole officer from the Correctional Service of Canada gathers documents and prepares reports, which are formally presented during a hearing of the National Parole Board at the correctional centre. Inmates are encouraged to apply four months before the parole eligibility date, so the formal hearing can occur close to that date.

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