Probation is a condition of an offender's original court sentence by a judge. An offender can be sentenced to probation only and be required to follow any number of specific stipulations as outlined in the court order. An offender may also be sentenced to jail time plus probation and also be required to fulfill specific stipulations demanded by the court, including regular reporting to a probation officer. Parole is a condition of early release for someone coming out of a prison. Probation has several programs designed to divert the less serious offender from formal court action when the community's safety is not in jeopardy.
Probation usually gets young people through referrals.
Juveniles accused of committing crimes may be referred to Probation by law enforcement agencies, parents, schools, or citizens. Probation officers interview the minors and their families and decide whether court intervention is necessary. All such decisions are made by the court. Wards may be committed to Juvenile Hall for short stays as part of a sanction for delinquent behavior. Home Supervision - Some juveniles are allowed to stay in their own homes, under the supervision of probation officers, pending a final court hearing.