Most offenders are eligible for Full Parole after serving what fraction of their sentence?

• A. One third
• B. One half
• C. Two thirds
• D. All of it

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of when inmates can first be considered for parole in Canada. For most offenders serving determinate sentences, the law allows the Parole Board to consider parole after the inmate has served one third of their sentence. If the board finds the offender suitable, they may grant full parole with conditions. There is also a separate mechanism called statutory release that kicks in at two thirds of the sentence, often automatically unless the board imposes ongoing detention or special conditions. Exceptions exist for certain serious offences, such as murder, where longer ineligibility periods apply. But for the typical, non-exceptional case, the key idea is that parole eligibility begins after one third of the sentence has been served.