Final answer:
Parole is a conditional release from prison with supervision after serving part of a sentence, whereas probation is an alternative to prison, also with supervision and conditions. The decision between them depends on factors like the offense severity, criminal history, behavior, resources, and rehabilitation potential.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differences Between Parole and Probation
The primary difference between parole and probation lies in the point at which each is administered and the options it represents in the criminal justice system. Parole is a conditional release from prison that allows an offender to serve the remainder of their sentence in the community under supervision. It is usually granted to prisoners who have served a significant portion of their sentence and have demonstrated good behavior or other qualifying conditions. Probation, on the other hand, is a type of sentencing whereby an offender is permitted to remain in the community rather than serving time in prison, also under supervision and with specific conditions that must be met.
Determining factors for whether an offender receives parole or probation include the nature and severity of the offense, the offender's criminal history, behavior while incarcerated, available resources, and potential for rehabilitation. A judge may opt for probation as an alternative to incarceration based on these factors, whereas parole decisions are typically made by a parole board after the offender has already served part of their sentence in prison.