When someone you love is incarcerated, every day can feel like a battle — a mix of worry, frustration, and helplessness. For families with loved ones who are seriously ill, elderly, or facing unjustly long sentences, the pain is even deeper. But there is a legal option that offers hope: compassionate release.
we help federal inmates and their families pursue early release from prison through compassionate release motions. Backed by Protass Law PLLC and led by experienced defense attorney Harlan Protass, we provide expert legal guidance in this complex and deeply personal area of law.
In this article, we’ll explain what compassionate release is, who qualifies, why it matters, and how we help.
What Is Compassionate Release?
Compassionate release is a legal process that allows federal inmates to be released from prison early when “extraordinary and compelling reasons” exist. These reasons can include:
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Terminal illness or serious medical conditions
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Old age, particularly when paired with health decline
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Death or incapacitation of a caregiver for the inmate’s child
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Significant changes in sentencing laws
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Other severe and unexpected personal circumstances
Compassionate release offers a humane and lawful way to correct the course of justice when continued imprisonment no longer serves the public interest.
The Impact of the First Step Act
For years, compassionate release requests were handled solely by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) — and they were rarely granted. Inmates often died waiting for their cases to be reviewed.
That changed with the First Step Act of 2018, a bipartisan criminal justice reform law. It gave inmates the right to file compassionate release motions directly in federal court if the BOP fails to act within 30 days.
This reform has empowered inmates, their families, and their attorneys to take action and seek relief on their own terms. It’s a vital step toward a more fair and responsive justice system.
Who Qualifies for Compassionate Release?
Eligibility for compassionate release depends on several factors. While each case is unique, common qualifying conditions include:
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Medical Conditions: Terminal illness, advanced cancer, dementia, ALS, heart failure, and other serious conditions that significantly impair functioning.
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Elderly Inmates: Typically age 65 or older, especially if they’ve served a significant portion of their sentence and present a low risk of reoffending.
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Family Circumstances: The death or incapacity of the only caregiver for a child or dependent can be grounds for release.
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Unjust Sentencing: Some individuals were sentenced under outdated laws or mandatory minimums that no longer apply today. Courts may consider these factors when deciding compassionate release motions.
If you’re unsure whether your loved one qualifies, our team can conduct a free case evaluation.
How Does the Process Work?
Here’s a simplified overview of the compassionate release process:
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Request to the Warden
The inmate must submit a written request for compassionate release to the prison warden. If there is no response or denial after 30 days, they may proceed to court. -
Motion Filed in Court
A formal motion is submitted to the sentencing judge, detailing the “extraordinary and compelling” reasons for release, supported by medical and legal documentation. -
Government Response
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has the opportunity to oppose or support the motion. -
Court Decision
The judge reviews the motion and makes a final decision. If granted, the inmate is released under specific terms.
Throughout this process, a compassionate release lawyer plays a critical role in gathering evidence, writing the motion, responding to the prosecution, and advocating in court.
Why Hire a Compassionate Release Lawyer?
While it’s possible for inmates to file a motion on their own, the chances of success are significantly higher with an experienced attorney. At Compassionate-Release, we help with:
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Case eligibility review
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Collection of medical records and legal history
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Drafting and filing the motion
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Communicating with prison officials, doctors, and the court
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Building a strong release plan (housing, care, transportation)
We understand that these cases are time-sensitive. Whether someone is terminally ill or facing extreme family hardship, we act with urgency, clarity, and care.
Medical Parole vs. Compassionate Release
While similar in concept, medical parole and compassionate release differ in application:
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Medical parole is often used in state prison systems and granted by parole boards.
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Compassionate release applies to federal inmates and is decided by the sentencing court.
Both options aim to allow seriously ill or incapacitated inmates to receive care outside of prison. We can help determine which legal pathway is appropriate for your loved one.
A Tool for Justice and Reform
Compassionate release is more than a legal motion — it’s a reflection of a more humane approach to criminal justice. Inmates who are no longer a threat to society should not be left to suffer behind bars. This is especially true for:
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Elderly inmates
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Individuals with disabilities
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Nonviolent offenders
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Those sentenced under outdated laws
By pursuing compassionate release, we don’t just fight for freedom — we fight for fairness, dignity, and justice.
Real-Life Example (Fictionalized)
James, a 68-year-old federal inmate, was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer. Despite receiving limited treatment in prison, his condition worsened quickly. His daughter, desperate to bring him home, contacted us.
We reviewed James’ medical records, filed a compassionate release motion, and worked with hospice providers to develop a post-release care plan. Within weeks, the judge granted the motion. James spent his final months in peace, surrounded by his family — not steel bars.
These are the moments that remind us why this work matters.
Take the First Step Today
If your loved one is in federal prison and facing serious illness, old age, or another life-changing hardship, don’t wait. Compassionate release may be the path to healing and reunification.
we’re ready to listen, act, and advocate. Our team offers:
✅ Free consultations
✅ Fast legal motion preparation
✅ Experience in federal sentencing and release law
✅ Deep care for the people we represent
Every day counts. Let’s fight for your loved one’s freedom — together.
???? Contact us now to schedule a case evaluation.
Visit Compassionate Release or call our office to speak directly with our legal team.