A compassionate release request is usually a letter to the warden that explains why the person qualifies, backed up by documents. Below you’ll find what to include and sample petitions for each type of request.

Getting compassionate release from the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is not simple. People in federal prison can ask for it for medical reasons, for family reasons, or because of their age. Sadly, few requests are granted. Knowing the process and the rules for each type of request can help you put together a stronger one.

How to apply for compassionate release

First, learn the process of applying for compassionate release and the specific reasons that can qualify. Then you are ready to apply.Compassionate Release Examples

Most people in federal prison apply by writing a letter to the warden. The letter asks for early release and explains why they qualify. It usually includes:

  • A statement that compassionate release is being sought.
  • The specific provision the application is being made under.
  • How the criteria for the specific provision are met.
  • Other applicable background information (e.g., medical, familial, etc.).
  • The prisoner’s release plan.

It is very important to include documents that support the request. For example, if the request is based on a medical condition, include copies of the medical records. Under the Bureau’s older rules, a request based on the death or incapacitation of a minor child’s caregiver had to include a full twelve categories of documents.

Sample compassionate release petitions

People call it a letter, an application, a form, or something else. Whatever the name, a compassionate release request has the same parts: a written request and supporting documents.

To make the process less confusing, we wrote sample petitions for the Bureau’s categories as they stood in 2018. Some categories have since changed or been dropped (Program Statement 5050.51, September 3, 2026). Click the links below to see an example of each type.

For people with a serious and advanced illness with an end-of-life trajectory (no specific life expectancy is required).

For people with an incurable illness that keeps getting worse, or a permanent, disabling injury, that leaves them completely or mostly disabled.

For people sentenced after November 1, 1987, who are at least 70 years old and have been in prison for 30 years or more.

For people who are 65 or older, have a serious decline in physical or mental health because of aging, and have served at least 10 years or 75 percent of the sentence, whichever is less (U.S.S.G. § 1B1.13(b)(2); Program Statement 5050.51 § 4(c)).

(This Bureau category was eliminated on September 3, 2026. The sample is kept for reference only.)

For people whose minor child’s caregiver has died or can no longer provide care. (The Bureau dropped this category on September 3, 2026; the situation can still be raised in court under U.S.S.G. § 1B1.13(b)(3)(A).)

For people whose spouse or registered partner can no longer care for themselves. (The Bureau dropped this category on September 3, 2026; the situation can still be raised in court under U.S.S.G. § 1B1.13(b)(3)(B).)

Getting a lawyer’s help

The compassionate release process is complicated, so you may want a lawyer’s help. Criminal Center researches, drafts, and submits compassionate release petitions.

First impressions matter. That is especially true when time is short and prison officials decide whether the request moves forward.

If you want help with a compassionate release request, book a consultation.

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