What Is The Difference Between Parole and Probation?
You might be here because you’re wondering, “What is the difference between parole and probation?”
These are commonly confused words, but the difference between them is fairly straightforward.
Probation is used in misdemeanor cases and allows the convicted person to serve their time outside of jail. Parole is used when a person gets released from prison early.
To learn more, keep reading or call us at (901) 523-2245.
PS If you need to get out of jail, we offer fast, affordable bail bonds that are designed to fit your budget.
Parole Unpacked
Parole is a mechanism that states use to allow prisoners to get out of prison early. As you can imagine, parole comes after a prisoner has already served a considerable portion of their sentence.
While on parole, a parolee is required to report to his or her parole officer on a routine basis, as well as adhere to various restrictions.
If a person gets caught violating their parole, they’ll be taken back to prison to finish their sentence.
Am I Eligible for Parole?
To be eligible for parole, a person not only needs to complete part of their sentence, but they also need to have good behavior.
You’ve probably heard of the phrase, “Getting out on good behavior.”
Well, there is a reason this expression exists.
The better a person acts while incarcerated, the easier it will be for their attorney to prove that they’ve learned from their experience and are no longer a threat to the community.
How About Probation?
As already mentioned, probation is a way for a person to serve their sentence outside of jail.
An individual who is on probation will continue living within their community but will of course remain under the observation of the probation officer.
Ultimately, judges are the only ones who decide whether or not a person is eligible for probation.
Violations That Can Land A Person On Probation
Here are some of the ways that a person can end up on probation:
- Failure to pay fines
- Failing drug and alcohol tests
- Not completing community service
- Crossing state lines without permission
- Committing a low-level crime
How Can I Stay On Parole Or Probation?
The conditions a person is expected to follow to remain on parole or probation change depending on where they live and the crime that was committed.
Generally speaking, though, those on probation can expect to pick up trash and attend probation meetings at the very least.
Probationers must also stay employed, avoid drugs and alcohol, avoid certain places and individuals, and not skip town.
More About Parole and Probation
As you may have noticed, the main emphasis of probation is behavioral reform in a friendly community setting.
Parolees are also expected to reform their behavior but are under stricter monitoring and are often checked for possession of weapons and other articles that may cause bodily harm.
Parolees are also often equipped with GPS tracking to deter them from fleeing.
Submit An Online Bail Bond Application
To submit an online bail bond request, just visit our Bail Bond Online page. After we receive your information, one of our agents will contact you.
Why Work With Us?
Here are the main reasons why clients choose to work with us.
- We are veterans in the industry with three decades of experience helping clients get quick and easy bail bonds in Shelby County.
- We have in-depth knowledge of bail bonds and the local justice system and how they work. We will not only guide you through the entire bail process but will also provide you with valuable information regarding the different jails in Shelby County.
- We can post bail for you quickly—within minutes of getting your information.
- We offer flexible bail bond payment plans that accommodate your budget.
- We are located in the city. Our address is 238 Poplar Ave. Suite 1 Memphis, TN 38103 if you want to drop by for a discussion.
- We understand that emergencies happen, which is why we are available 24/7. Call us at any time for assistance.
