Understanding Probation & Parole

While both can be part of the sentencing process in Missouri, and both involve offenders supervised by the Missouri Department of Corrections' Division of Probation and Parole, “probation” and “parole” have important differences.

What is probation?

“Probation” typically refers to time an offender lives in the community under supervision and according to certain conditions. Probation is ordered by a local circuit court as an alternative to spending time in prison. Offenders on probation are supervised by probation officers, who work for the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole. If such offenders violate conditions of their probation, they are subject to having their probation revoked, in which case the offenders could be sentenced to prison.

What is parole?

“Parole,” on the other hand, is an early conditional  release from prison. The authority to determine whether an offender should be granted parole is the role of the Missouri Parole Board. A person on parole also lives under supervision and according to certain conditions. Offenders on parole remain subject to supervision by parole officers, who work for the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole. If these offenders violate conditions of parole, they are subject to having their parole revoked and returned to prison.

Who decides?

Probation – a judge decides whether to grant probation

Parole – the Missouri Parole Board decides whether to grant parole

Who supervises?

If a judge grants probation or the Missouri Parole Board grants parole, the offender then is supervised by an officer who works for the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole.

Learn more about the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole through the Missouri Department of Corrections website for family and friends of offenders.

The department ’s website also lists locations of the state’s various probation and parole facilities.