vrijlating

Vrijlating is a legal term used to describe the release of a person from custody or from a legal confinement, often within the criminal justice system. In Dutch law, the term most commonly refers to the release of a convicted person from prison, either at the end of the sentence or earlier through conditional release.

There are two main forms. End-of-sentence release occurs when the full sentence has been served and the individual is free to reintegrate into society. Conditional release, or voorwaardelijke vrijlating, allows early release before the sentence is completed but under specified conditions designed to reduce the risk of reoffending. These conditions can include reporting to a probation service, living at a designated address, maintaining employment or education, abstaining from alcohol or drugs, avoiding contact with certain persons, and participating in rehabilitation programs. The decision to grant conditional release is typically made by the relevant authority, often after an assessment by a parole or probation service.

If conditions are breached, the authorities may revoke the vrijlating and reinstate the remainder of the sentence, with the individual potentially returning to custody. Vrijlating is part of a broader approach to rehabilitation and community reintegration, balancing public safety with opportunities for personal reform. In English-language contexts, the concept may be referred to as parole or conditional release, depending on the jurisdiction.