Probation is an alternative to prison, while parole is a shortened period of time that you’ll spend in prison. If your sentence includes probation, you can suspend your time in jail in exchange for following specific guidelines. This can include any of the following: ·         Regularly checking in with a probation officer. ·         Attending rehab programs. ·         Attending your job or school. Parole is meant to help people complete their sentence outside of jail after they have served a specific portion of it.