Probation

An alternative to imprisonment allowing a person found guilty of an offense to stay in the community, usually under conditions and under the supervision of a probation officer. A violation of probation can lead to its revocation and to imprisonment.

A sentencing alternative to imprisonment in which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision as long as certain conditions are observed.

A sentencing alternative to imprisonment in which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision of a probation officer, who makes certain that the defendant follows certain rules (e.g., gets a job, gets drug counseling, etc.); A department of the court that prepares a presentence report.

The process of suspending a sentence, permitting a person to remain free under the supervision of a probation officer instead of serving time in prison.

A criminal sentence in which the defendant is placed under court supervision for a specified period of time but allowed to remain in the community. While on probation, the defendant is required to report to a probation officer and comply with other court-imposed conditions.