Glossary
Probation
A criminal sentence served in the community under supervision instead of behind bars. Probation usually comes with conditions: regular check-ins with a probation officer, drug testing, employment requirements, and avoiding new offenses.
Probation is one of the most common sentences for non-violent offenses. It lets the defendant continue working and supporting their family while still being monitored. The trade-off: violation of any condition can mean immediate revocation and serving the underlying sentence.
Probation can last months or years depending on the offense. During probation, the defendant has reduced rights: probation officers can search them and their homes without warrants, and probation revocation hearings have a lower standard of proof than the original trial.