The Differences Between Probation and Parole

Being a probation and parole officer, one of the questions I often encounter is about the differences between probation and parole. They are similar, and many people interchange the terms, but there are enough differences that they are not the same thing.

First remember that every state can, and usually are, a little different, so while what I tell you is true about my state, things might be a little different in another state. Most general items should be very similar however.

First, both probation and parole allow someone who has been involve in the commission of a crime to be in the general public, hopefully being a productive citizen, rather than being incarcerated. Many people want to know why we can't lock up everyone. That alone is worth an article, but to deal with it quickly, let's look at 3 things.

First, some people legitimately to something stupid and deserve a chance to atone and get on with their life. Second, keeping someone locked up is very expensive and the taxpayers throw a fit when you hand them to bill. Third, you have to have someplace to put them, most prisons are full, and prisons are expensive to build, staff, and who wants one next door to them?

Now, I want to look at 6 areas where probation and parole differ.