Parole, also referred to as provisional release or supervised release, is a legal mechanism in the United States that allows for the early release of an inmate from prison. Rather than serving out a full sentence behind bars, individuals on parole are permitted to complete their original sentence within the community under specific supervision.
Inmates granted parole must adhere to various behavioral conditions, which typically include regular check-ins with designated parole officers. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in rearrest and return to prison. In certain jurisdictions across the United States, individuals may be eligible to shorten their time on parole by earning compliance credits.