There are several ways an inmate can get time off their sentence, including requests for sentence reductions and petitions for early release. Most BOP inmates, for example, are entitled to at least some time off their sentences in the form of “good time credit.” If an inmate serves their sentence without disciplinary issues, they can get up to 15% off of their total sentence.
Some sentence reduction or early release programs are exclusively operated by the BOP, meaning they are the ultimate decision makers when an inmate requests a release or reduction. Some situations, however, give inmates the ability to file motions with the court. Below are some of the options inmates have for seeking early release or sentence reductions.