What Is the Difference between Probation and Parole?

Probation is a decision handed down by the judge at trial. It may be in lieu of jail time or in combination with some jail time. It allows the convicted person to live in the community for a specified period of time under the supervision of a probation officer. Depending on the circumstances and the seriousness of the crime, the judge can specify restrictions on the offender's activities during the probationary period. If an offender violates the conditions or rules of probation, he or she may be sentenced to imprisonment by the judge. This is known as revoking the probation or revocation.

Parole is the early release of an inmate who has served part of his or her prison sentence. The inmate is allowed to return to the community under the conditions of parole and the supervision of a parole agent. Violation of these conditions can result in a revocation of the parole and re-imprisonment for the offender. The decision to grant parole is the responsibility of the Parole Commission.