probation (noun)

a trial period during which your character and abilities are tested to see whether you are suitable for work or for membership

probation (noun)

a trial period during which an offender has time to redeem himself or herself

probation (noun)

(law) a way of dealing with offenders without imprisoning them; a defendant found guilty of a crime is released by the court without imprisonment subject to conditions imposed by the court

"probation is part of the sentencing process"

probation (Noun)

A period of time when a person occupies a position only conditionally and may easily be removed for poor performance

probation (Noun)

A type of sentence where convicted criminals are allowed to continue living in the community but will automatically be sent to jail if they violate certain conditions

probation (Noun)

The act of testing; proof

Probation

Probation in criminal law is a period of supervision over an offender, ordered by a court in the stead of serving time in prison. In some jurisdictions, the term probation only applies to community sentences, such as suspended sentences. In others, probation also includes supervision of those conditionally released from prison on parole. An offender on probation is ordered to follow certain conditions set forth by the court, often under the supervision of a probation officer. During this testing period, an offender faces the threat of being sent back to prison, if found breaking the rules. Offenders are ordinarily required to refrain from possession of firearms, and may be ordered to remain employed, abide to a curfew, live at a directed place, obey the orders of the probation officer, or not leave the jurisdiction. The probationer might be ordered as well to refrain from contact with the victims, with potential victims of similar crimes, or with known criminals, particularly co-defendants. Additionally, the restrictions can include a ban on possession or use of alcoholic beverages, even if alcohol was not involved in the original criminal charges. Offenders on probation might be fitted with an electronic tag, which signals their whereabouts to officials. Also, offenders have been ordered to submit to repeated alcohol/drug testing or to participate in alcohol/drug or psychological treatment, or to perform community service work.