What is the difference between probation and parole?

Probation and parole are two distinct concepts in the criminal justice system, primarily differentiated by who issues them and the circumstances surrounding their use.

Probation is an alternative to incarceration and is typically ordered by a judge at the time of sentencing. When a judge grants probation, the offender remains in the community under certain conditions instead of serving time in prison. This is intended to allow the individual a chance to rehabilitate while maintaining ties to family and work.

Parole, on the other hand, occurs after an individual has served part of their prison sentence. A parole board assesses the inmate's readiness for reintegration into society and decides whether to grant parole to allow the individual to serve the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community. Therefore, the procedural authority—judicial for probation and a parole board for parole—is a critical distinction that underscores the different phases of the criminal justice process each term represents.

The other options do not accurately reflect the fundamental differences in how probation and parole are structured or applied. Probation is not a form of bail, it does not imply permanence, and it typically includes supervision rather than eliminating it. Understanding these distinctions is vital for those working in probation and parole, as they reflect the legal framework within which they operate.