Probation is a sentence ordered by a judge, usually instead of, serving time in jail.
It allows a person convicted of a crime to live in the community for a specified period of time, often under the supervision of a probation officer, depending on the circumstances and the seriousness of the crime. The decision to grant parole is the responsibility, in a majority of states, of a board of parole or commission. Violation of the conditions of parole usually result in a parolee being put back in prison. The information contained in this site is made available as a public service to the general public and is not intended to serve as legal advice. You should consult a trained legal professional for questions you may have about the laws affecting juveniles or any legal interpretations.