Probation and parole are often discussed together, but they do not mean the same thing in Minnesota. The main difference is when supervision happens. Probation is usually ordered by a judge instead of sending someone to prison, while parole or supervised release generally happens after someone has served part of a prison sentence.

 

That difference matters. The rules, supervising authority, violation process, and possible consequences are not always the same. A person on probation may be sent back to