Probation is a form of punishment that involves direct supervision and monitoring of an offender’s behavior. It may replace part of a sentence or begin after a prison sentence is served. Offenders must report regularly to a parole officer and meet various conditions, including bans on committing a felony and excessive alcohol consumption. Additional requirements may be imposed depending on the nature of the original conviction. The purpose of probation is to reintegrate the offender into society while protecting the public and reducing the chance of reoffendence.
Probation is a sentencing option used by state, provincial or federal courts. This type of punishment provides for direct supervision of the offender, monitoring of prohibited and mandatory behavior and other provisions of the court. In some countries and states or provinces, this type of release can be in the form of probation that replaces part of the original sentence, or it can be a second sentence that begins when the prison sentence has been served.
On supervised release, an inmate must report regularly to a parole officer and meet various conditions, including bans on committing a felony, possession of a controlled substance, excessive alcohol consumption, and association with convicted felons. Additionally, periodic drug testing may be required, and the person is not permitted to leave the geographic area without court authorization. Employment is a requirement for release and any change of employment or residence must be reported to the probation officer immediately.
Additional requirements may be imposed depending on the nature of the original conviction. If a person has served a sentence for domestic violence or drug or alcohol related offences, specific counseling may be sought. Sex offenders are required to comply with sex offender registration regulations and may be banned from using the Internet for a period of time. Restrictions relating to association with certain people may also be included. While supervised release is a separate phrase at the federal level, most states still use this approach as a form of probation.
In Canada, probation is reserved for probation. Canadian law requires an inmate to be released from prison after serving two-thirds of his sentence if he is not deemed a danger to the community. At that point, the Corrections Service of Canada provides extensive oversight and restrictions that are designed to help the ex-convict return to society without reverting to the criminal behavior that led to his or her arrest and confinement. Some of the release conditions include maintaining gainful employment, a curfew, travel restrictions, a ban on drinking, and limiting personal associations.
In the UK, a Probation Order (SRO) can be issued to a juvenile or adult offender who must serve between one and four years. If an SRO is issued, it usually lasts for one year and depends on good behavior. A supervising social worker is assigned and the inmate is required to report regularly. He is also required to attend all applicable programs, remain employed, and meet any other conditions.
Regardless of jurisdiction, the purpose of probation is to reintegrate the offender into society in a way that protects the public and reduces the chance of reoffendence or return to prison. Compliance in a controlled structure can be much easier than in an open society with all the temptations and old bindings available. When properly followed, the conditions of release are designed to prepare the person for a successful reentry into society.
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