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Last Modified on Nov 19, 2025
Parole and probation are legal tools that require the legal supervision of an individual once they are outside of prison or jail. Parole and probation allow individuals who have been convicted of a crime to spend time with their families, work at their jobs, and participate in their communities. However, these alternative sentencing methods carry many differences, which is why it’s important to educate yourself on the contrasts between parole vs. probation in Pennsylvania.
In Pennsylvania, most county probation and parole programs are administered by the Pennsylvania Commission for Crime and Delinquency. The exceptions are Mercer and Venango Counties, where jurisdiction falls to the Mercer District Parole Office.
Understanding Parole in Pennsylvania
Across the country, criminal justice experts agree that it’s beneficial to help individuals who have been convicted, especially for long periods of time, reintegrate gradually back into society. In Pennsylvania, parole is the release of an individual from prison prior to the end of their sentence, but after their minimum sentence date. Minimum and maximum dates are calculated by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.
If an inmate wants to request parole in Pennsylvania, they must file a written Parole Application with the PA Parole Board to initiate a parole request. The application must be sent to the PA Parole Board, RAO Office, 1101 South Front Street, Suite 5300, Harrisburg, PA 17104. Consulting a lawyer can help you better navigate the process and submit a strong request.
Part of the parole process in Pennsylvania includes creating and submitting a home plan to the parole field office detailing where you would like to live upon release. A parole agent will conduct an in-person interview with the proposed home provider at the residence. Home plans are created to ensure public safety and to provide a successful transition for inmates.
Parole is granted by the Pennsylvania Parole Board. The individual is released from prison and serves the remainder of their sentence under supervision in the community. According to data from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, there are currently 33,603 individuals on parole in Pennsylvania.
Understanding Probation in Pennsylvania
Probation is another form of alternative sentencing in Pennsylvania that provides a community-based alternative to incarceration. This allows offenders to stay out of jail and under supervision. Probation also helps offenders enact positive behavioral changes. It is typically only offered to first-time, non-violent offenders.
A judge will consider the following when determining eligibility for probation in Pennsylvania:
- Your criminal history
- If a weapon was used during the commission of the crime you committed
- If you show signs of remorse for the crime you committed
- The nature and severity of the offense
- If there were physical or mental injuries to anyone as a result of the offense
- If you are a danger to the community
- If you are likely to reoffend
The Pennsylvania Board of Probation annually supervises approximately 41,000 individuals. Offenders are expected to follow the general rules of supervision and any additional conditions imposed by the court. The terms of probation may include:
- Maintaining employment
- Regularly scheduled and unscheduled check-ins with your probation officer
- Maintaining housing
- Remaining in a specified geographical area/jurisdiction
- Not using drugs and alcohol
- Pay court-ordered fines
- Submitting to random drug and alcohol testing
- Obeying all laws
While under probation, an individual will have scheduled in-person contact with their probation officer. If an individual is arrested while on probation, it is considered a violation, and they may face a probation detainer in the county jail. If an individual is convicted of a new crime while on probation, they may be returned to court and face an additional period of supervision (probation) or incarceration.
Hire a Probation Lawyer Who Can Help You Restart
The laws surrounding probation and parole in Pennsylvania are complex and can be difficult to navigate without skilled legal counsel. The team at Stanton D. Levenson, P.A. Law Offices can help you understand parole laws and probation laws, and how to pursue the right option for your specific scenario.
Attorney Stanton D. Levenson is an experienced criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania who has received multiple accolades over the course of his career, including recognition as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer in the category of Criminal Defense. Additionally, Attorney Amy Levenson Jones has represented clients in both federal and state criminal courts, giving her an edge in Pennsylvania courtrooms. The office provides comprehensive legal services tailored to the needs of each client we serve.
