Probation Advantages and Disadvantages

What is probation? Probation is a court order sentencing that consist of the defendant to either serve or complete the remaining sentence of imprisonment in a supervised community. The defendant that’s assigned to completing a probation sentence will be under supervision of an officer of the court; which are referred to as a Probation Officer. Probation is one of the most common criminal sentencing processes in the United States. A probation sentence generally allows most defendant to remain free in society while under supervision of their Probation Officer. Those who are court ordered to probation are given specific court orders such as, maintaining good behavior, paying a fine, getting mental therapy, staying away from drugs and/or alcohol and reporting regularly to their court appointed probation officer.

What is parole? Parole is an early release from imprisonment confinement. Parole allows the defendant a second chance at reentering the community. Parolees are usually granted by statutes, and these provisions vary from state to state. Before a defendant is granted release for parole they will have to appear in front of the parole board. The parole board is who actually decides when an incarcerated offender is ready to be released back into the community. Defendants are usually eligible to see the parole board once he or she has completed a percentage of their sentence in correctional confinement. When going to the parole board the defendant’s case is looked into to monitor their behavior and other special considerations. Once the defendant has been granted their release from correctional confinement the parole board determines whether placement in a residential facility, community release center or on electronic monitoring is appropriate for the defendant. The board also establishes special conditions in order to address an offender's specific needs, ultimately reducing risk and improving success under supervision (http://doc.mo.gov/PP/)

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