Differences Between Parole and Probation

The most important aspect of both parole and probation is simple: you’re not in prison. They mean the court or parole board has determined that either your good behavior or the offense’s nature does not merit confinement. While these are positive results in most state and federal criminal proceedings, many clients forget that they come with strings attached.

You’re still subject to court authority while on probation or parole, and it’s essential to continue working closely with an experienced defense lawyer at Mette Law in Harrisburg to ensure you’re not returned to prison.

Understanding Probation, Parole, and Supervised Release in Pennsylvania

Whether you’re on probation, parole, or supervised release in the Commonwealth makes a difference when it comes to your legal obligations and travel plans. Consider the following brief overview of each type of release:

Parole

Experts agree that the best approach to family health and preventing recidivism is offering convicted offenders the opportunity for parole. Parole essentially cuts your incarceration short, allowing you to reenter the community before you finish your official prison sentence.

It comes with specific check-in and behavioral requirements, but you can start preparing for a state parole hearing up to 8 months before the offense’s minimum sentencing. However, parole is not mandatory. You generally must earn the right to release through good behavior and the right criminal defense lawyer.

Probation

Unlike parole, probation is a court-ordered alternative to a prison sentence. It sentences the offender within the community to therapy, alcohol and drug treatment, or community service. It can also require GPS monitoring and prevent you from traveling outside of the Commonwealth, but you can still work and live a whole life while on probation. Experienced Harrisburg criminal defense lawyers will fight for a probation-only sentence in appropriate cases.

Supervised Release

There is no more extended federal ‘parole’. It was eliminated in the 1980s. If you’re sentenced for a federal offense, you must serve at least 90% of your sentence without exception. You’re then placed on supervised release with the federal marshal’s office for a specific period. This system runs similarly to state probation and parole.

Standard Terms of Release for Parolees and Probationers

Whether you’re on probation, parole, or supervised release in Harrisburg, it’s essential to abide by your release terms. These most commonly include the following set forth for parolees in 37 Pa. Code § 63.4:

• No criminal activity
• Therapy
• Reporting to parole/probation officers
• Applying for jobs and/or working
• Community service
• General good behavior
• Paying restitution, fines, and family support obligations
• Home checks
• Filing reports and paperwork
• Staying within the state or district
• Maintaining a permanent residence
• Not possessing or owning a firearm

If you violated the terms of your probation or parole in PA, contact a criminal defense lawyer to review your case and protect your freedom.

Harrisburg Probation and Parole Release and Revocation Lawyers

Understanding your obligations while on probation or parole is necessary for putting this chapter of your life behind you. If you need help understanding your release terms or defending against revocation proceedings, confidentially discuss your case with our experienced Harrisburg, PA, post-conviction release attorneys. Call (717) 232-5000 or connect with our criminal defense team online today.