Do you know the difference between probation and parole?

We’ve all heard the terms ‘probation’ and ‘parole’ used in the media or in movies, but it can be easy to get mixed up with their meanings.

Probation and parole both involve supervision in the community with conditions to help the person address their offending and individual needs.

What is probation?

Probation is a type of sentencing order made by a court.

If a person on probation commits an offence or does not follow the conditions, they may have to go back to court.

What is parole?

Parole is part of a person’s prison sentence.

If a person on parole commits an offence or does not follow the conditions, they can be returned to prison. The Parole Board decides this, not a court.

For more information

Read our sentencing guide for more detail on probation and parole.