Probation: A Sentencing Alternative to Incarceration

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Recommended: Criminal justice advantages of Probation and Parole

Probation is more important to society than many would initially consider. Many community members are completing the conditions of their probation around you. The practice of probation and other sentencing alternatives has been used for decades and has varied purposes and results. Probation is a sector of criminal justice with its own strict rules, conditions, and participants. The use of probation is has a direct correlation to the community. There are specific tasks included in probation that must be completed to stay out of jail. This is not an option that is given to all offenders but it is one of the most common types of correctional supervision used. With the different levels of crime, probation is a sentencing option that should be used to keep prison population in control.
The main purpose of probation is as a tool for rehabilitation. Usually confused with parole, probation is different because of the reasons the sentence is given. Probation can be given instead of prison while parole is requested during jail time. In America, probation was first used in the 19th Century. At that time, the alternative to imprisonment was to be accepted in to someone’s home under careful watch. Policies have changed over time and today there are different practices concerning probation. Strict parameters are the most important aspects of probation. The process starts in court with a sentence and conditions given being given by a judge. The conditions of the sentence ensure that the offender knows what to do and what not to do in order to stay out of jail.
The term of probation is supervised by probation officers. These officers hold a responsibility to the court in making sure the offender is behaving correctly. Failure to comply with p...

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...provide the legal framework for probation and parole supervision (Schmalleger, 2013). With the continued use of probation, there may be a change in how sentencing is given on some crime. The difference between misdemeanors and felonies may become greater in that case. Jail and serious sentencing should be given to career criminals and those with no remorse. The alternative of probation is a good choice for a first time offender or someone who is committed to redeeming themselves in the eyes of their community.

References
Harrigan, J., & Nice, D. (2008). Politics and policy in states and communities (1st ed.). New York: Pearson/Longman.
Klingele, C. (2013). Rethinking The use of community supervision. Journal Of Criminal Law & Criminology, 103(4), 1015-1069.
Schmalleger, F. (2013). Criminal justice today (1st ed.). Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson Education.

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