Parole vs. Probation

Parole and probation are often confused and used interchangeably. However, they are two very different things even though they are based on the same concept.

Someone may be sentenced to probation instead of being confined to a correctional facility. Along with probation comes strict guidelines. Some of the most common requirements include checking in regularly with your probation officer, attending drug/alcohol rehab, attending counseling sessions, and apply for employment or keep a job. Community service is also a common requirement for probation.

Parole is a conditional release from prison. With parole, time has already been served and an early release is considered. There is no set time you must wait before applying for parole, however, the minimum is usually set within the sentence. When an opportunity arrives for parole, the offender goes before a parole board to plead their case. Parole also has many conditions which can include checking in regularly with a parole officer, holding down a job, abstaining from committing any more crimes, attending drug/alcohol rehab, attending anger management/therapy sessions, and not associating with other convicted criminals.

Here is a list of celebrities who are or have been on probation:

• 50 Cent - battery and assault in 2002.
• Chris Brown - assaulting Rihanna in 2009.
• Hugh Grant - attempting to purchase a prostitute in 1995.
• Khloe Kardashian - DUI in 2007.
• Lindsay Lohan - her whole life... drugs.
• Paris Hilton -  DUI in 2006.

picture from google images
info from ranker.com