The difference between probation and parole is that parole is a conditional release that comes after you have served some portion of your jail sentence, while probation is in lieu of jail time.
Parole means that you have gone through an application process in front of the parole board and been released from your prison term early, so long as you fulfill certain conditions of your parole. These conditions include meeting regularly with a parole officer; not leaving the state unless you have been given written, legal permission; not getting arrested, doing drugs or committing any technical violations; and consistent payment of restitution, fines and child support if owed. Additionally, your parole may require you to seek work, follow curfew or other requirements, including attending treatment programs.
If you are arrested, the parole officer can seek to have your parole revoked, which would force you to serve out your jail sentence.
Probation means that your sentence has been “set aside,” so to speak, while your serve a term period of probation. During that probation period, you must not get arrested, will have to see a probation officer and will have to follow any other terms of probation, including any community service, restitution, treatment programs and the like. You also are not allowed to move out of state on probation unless you receive written legal permission from your probation officer. If you fail the conditions of your probation, your probation can be revoked, and you can be forced to serve out your jail sentence.
At the law offices of attorney Gregg A. Wisotsky, Esq., Partner, Javerbaum Wurgaft Hicks Kahn Wikstrom & Sinins, PC, we offer prospective clients charged with crimes a free phone consultation. We can answer your questions, explain your rights and help you understand your options relating to a criminal charge.
Contact our office online or call us at 973-241-7468 for a free consultation. In addition to our criminal law practice, We also represent clients in personal injury law cases.