Parole

Parole is akin to probation but is still distinct. Probation is when you have been convicted of a crime but you do not serve any jail time, instead you are either on formal or informal probation - in essence the Court wants to make sure you stay on your best behavior.

Parole is for those individuals who have served time but are let out early. For example if the individual is sentenced to 10 years prison time but only serves 6 before being let out, the individual will have to serve some time on parole (likely one year). During this time the individual is to follow all laws, be a model citizen, keep in contact with your parole officer and refrain from any drugs or alcohol.

Parole is intended as a means of introducing individuals who were incarcerated back into the general public. In California a person with a life sentence will be released into the general public if the Board of Prison Terms determines that the individual is no longer an unreasonable danger to the public. The Board looks at many factors including the individuals programming, criminal history, prison history, vocational skills, education and support in the general populace if let out.

Depending on what the individual did he or she may or may not get parole. Once an individual gets parole it is in their best interest to follow the terms and conditions of the parole otherwise they are looking at significant jail time.