What’s the Difference Between Probation and Parole?

paroleWhen a person is convicted of a crime, there are various consequences a person can face depending on the severity of the crime. Two of those consequences include probation and parole. However, there is a big difference between the two. The Nobles & Yanez Law Firm can assist you in the criminal case process and help you understand the difference. Being a great defense attorney includes not only knowing how to win a case and avoid a conviction, but also getting the lowest sentence possible if a conviction does occur. By presenting a strong sentencing argument to the Judge, we can help you avoid a jail or prison sentence and have an alternative sentence imposed by the Court.

What is Probation?

Probation is a type of punishment that a Judge may order if the individual has been found guilty of committing a gross misdemeanor or felony. In this case, the Judge will impose a jail or prison sentence and then suspend the sentence and have the person serve a term of probation. If the person completes their probation term successfully, they avoid ever having to serve time in jail or prison. The Nobles & Yanez Law Firm can guide you through your rights and obligations if you are granted probation.

Specifically, probation allows a person to remain free in the community while being supervised by a probation officer. However, the conditions of probation imposed by the Judge may differ depending on the individual and can include a variety of requirements, including:

  • Reporting to a probation officer on a regular basis
  • Search of person and home
  • Curfew
  • House arrest
  • Restitution payments for damages caused
  • Employment
  • Community service
  • Drugs and alcohol restrictions, including random drug testing
  • Weapon possession and usage restrictions

What is parole?

Parole is a conditional release to the community that is not available until after a part of a prison sentence has been served. Parole is not ordered by a Judge. It is granted by the Nevada Board of Parole after convincing the Board at a Parole Hearing that the person should be granted release.

Parole is similar to probation as to the requirements and restrictions the Board of Parole can impose—noted above—like supervision by a parole officer, random searches of person/home, drug testing, etc. A person is eligible for parole only after serving the minimum prison sentence imposed by the Judge.

How an Attorney Can Help

If you are granted probation, the best thing you can do is stick to the rules of probation. You have to try your hardest to not violate any terms of your probation or else you can face the suspended jail or prison sentence originally imposed by the Judge.

If you have violated the terms of your probation or are seeking release on parole, you will need to obtain an attorney who is experienced and knowledgeable in both areas of sentencing. The Nobles & Yanez Law Firm has handled hundreds of violation of probation hearings as well as Parole Hearings.

While an attorney may have helped you with your first case that got you on probation or parole, the situation may be more serious if you are accused of another crime. Now you will end up with two cases. Since these matters are extremely serious, you must retain a highly qualified and aggressive attorney who is ready to fight for you.

Whether you are innocent or just made a big mistake, Nobles & Yanez is always on your side. At the end of the day, you want an attorney that is known not only for their extensive record of successful verdicts, but also for winning at sentencing hearings when a conviction cannot be avoided.