Cjs230 Probation

The best definition of probation as a sentence is: A sentence whereby a convict is released from confinement but is still under court supervision. Probation can be given instead of a prison term or can suspend a prison sentence if the convict has consistently demonstrated good behavior.
    Very plainly, probation is the suspension of a jail sentence. This means that the criminal who is "on probation" has been convicted of a crime but rather than serving jail time they will be returned to the community for a period of time. During this period of time they will have to live by certain rules set forth by the Court, under the supervision of a probation officer. General conditions can be: maintaining employment, adhering to a curfew, living where directed, refraining from unlawful behavior, following the probation officer's orders and not leaving the sentencing court’s jurisdictional area without permission.
    Usually the offender is supervised by a probation officer who monitors their performance and compliance during their probation period. The probation officer helps the offender to become accustomed to living in the community with the restrictions listed above; to guide and help them to behave in a lawful and responsible way.
    According to chapter 15 of our text, “If you were a criminal sentenced to felony probation in Lafayette Parish,
Louisiana, you would be provided with the following legal notice (in abridged
form) for your signature:
Conditions of Probation
It is the Order of the Court that you comply with the following required conditions
of probation:
Refrain from criminal conduct and pay a supervision fee to defray the costs of
Probation supervision.
The Court has ordered you to pay a supervision fee of $___________ per
Month and it is to begin on ___________.
The following specific conditions have also been imposed:
1. Make a full and truthful report at the end of each month.
2. Meet your specified family responsibilities, including...