Generally speaking, probation and parole are both legal terms that are used interchangeably. However, there are differences between the two that may be important to you. For example, probation has its own set of rules and regulations, and can be quite difficult to adhere to. On the other hand, parole is a temporary release from prison that allows the offender to live in the community. Depending on the offender’s criminal history and other factors, there are different levels of probation.
Depending on the state, a person who receives probation may or may not receive any jail time. Probation may also include counseling, community service and other forms of rehabilitative programs. During probation, the offender will have to report to a probation officer, attend meetings, follow a curfew and pay court costs.
Probation is a good way to avoid incarceration. But, it can also be a drag on a person’s freedom. It also restricts a person’s mobility and job prospects. If a person fails to meet the conditions of his or her probation, it may lead to a re-sentencing to jail. In some jurisdictions, a person may receive both probation and jail time, but that is rare.
Probation may be awarded to an offender for a variety of reasons, including good behavior, minor infractions, or a suspended sentence. Probation may also be awarded to an offender who has been convicted of a felony. Unlike probation, parole is not awarded to an offender with a clean record. It is only awarded to first time offenders. It is also usually given in conjunction with a short jail or prison term.
While the rules and regulations surrounding probation may vary from state to state, the key benefits of probation are that it allows an offender to stay in the community and reduce the time that he or she spends in custody. Probation also helps to minimize the risk of committing a new offense. Probation is generally for minor infractions. However, if a person commits a more serious offense while on probation, it could lead to a re-sentencing.
Parole, on the other hand, is an early release from prison. It can be awarded to a serious offender with a clean record and a proven track record of good behavior during the course of the sentence. The biggest difference between probation and parole is that while probation is administered by a court, parole is administered by a parole board. The board considers an inmate’s criminal history, age, and other factors before deciding if an offender is eligible for parole. The board also considers the offender’s mental state and whether the offender is likely to become a productive member of society.
Both probation and parole are important steps toward rehabilitation. While the differences between these two types of supervision are significant, they are not as major as some might think. Probation is a good way to make amends for past crimes, while parole is an opportunity for an offender to finish his or her sentence in the community.
