Parole is the temporary free of a prisoner who agrees to certain conditions prior to the completion of the maximum sentence period. Originating from the French parole, the term became associated during the Middle Ages with the release of prisoners who gave their word. This differs significantly from reprieve or commutation of sentence in that parolees are still measured to be serving their sentences, and may be returned to prison if they violate the circumstances of their parole.
Introduction to Parole
