Which statement best describes mandatory parole?

Mandatory parole is defined as a situation where an offender is released from prison automatically after serving a predetermined portion of their sentence, as mandated by law. This process typically does not require a parole hearing, and the offender is released to complete the remainder of their sentence under parole supervision.

This automatic nature distinguishes mandatory parole from other types of parole that may involve discretion or the need for a hearing. Understanding mandatory parole is crucial for grasping the overall penal system, as it ensures that certain offenders are reintegrated into the community without the barriers presented by discretionary parole processes.

The remaining options refer to specific practices or concepts related to parole but do not accurately represent the nature of mandatory parole. For example, the idea of requiring a hearing or granting parole at the discretion of a judge pertains to parole types that involve more assessment and evaluation rather than automatic release.