When someone is arrested and charged with breaking the law, there are many potential outcomes that can occur, depending on the severity of the offense. Two of the most common sentences judges deliver are parole and probation, yet many people aren’t clear on how they differ from one another. Both tend to be favorable to defense lawyers and their clients, as they allow those who have been convicted of a crime to avoid serving a full prison term. However, there are some significant ways the two vary. Here are the major distinctions you should understand if you’re facing criminal charges.

Parole 

Parole is a conditional release from prison. After a defendant has served a designated percentage of their prison sentence, they may go before a parole board with their defense lawyer to see if they are eligible for an early supervised release. Parole is often granted on the condition of good behavior. This allows the defendant to serve the remainder of their sentence as a part of the community. To avoid having to return to jail, they will be given a list of conditions they must uphold while on parole. These may include staying away from drugs and alcohol, holding a steady job, and making regular check-ins with their parole officer.

Probation                     

Probation is usually used as an alternative to prison, only offered to first-time, nonviolent offenders. This gives defendants convicted of a crime the opportunity to show they can be rehabilitated without serving any prison time. As long as the terms of the probation are being met, the defendant may avoid going to jail at all. The conditions of a probation sentence are largely similar to those given for a defendant on parole.

If you have been charged with a crime, it may be in your best interest for your defense lawyer to pursue parole or probation. With James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law, advocating on your behalf, you can be confident someone is working aggressively to get the most favorable outcome for your case. Offering Cincinnati, OH, residents more than a decade of experience, he has helped protect the rights and freedoms of numerous clients. Call (513) 503-7251 to speak with a skilled defense lawyer, or visit him online to learn more about his legal background.