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1. What is the difference between probation and parole?

Probation is a sentence or disposition imposed by a criminal court or family court. In general, probationers are released in the community without serving a period of local incarceration, although in certain circumstances they may be sentenced to both imprisonment (local) and probation; the sentence of incarceration shall be a condition of and run concurrently with a sentence of probation. Probation is a county function in New York State, although in New York City, the probation department is run by the City government. The Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives (OPCA) provides regulatory oversight and funding to local probation departments.

Parole is a portion of a correctional sentence served in the community following a term of incarceration in state prison. For offenders serving an "indeterminate" sentence, the NYS Board of Parole makes decisions whether an eligible state inmate is granted or denied parole. Offenders sentenced to a "determinate" prison term generally are released after serving 6/7 of their sentence. The period of supervised release following incarceration for such offenders is known as "Post-Release Supervision." Parole or Post-Release Supervision is intended to assist offenders in returning to society. These offenders are supervised in the community by parole officers, who are state officials employed by the NYS Division of Parole. For more information, please visit New York State Parole

2. Who do I contact for a Home Study that was ordered in Family Court?

Probation will receive an order from Family Court and the officer assigned to complete that Home Study will contact the parties involved to set up an appointment.

3. Who do I contact to get my child into the P.I.N.S. program?

The Department of Social Services manages the Person In Need of Supervision program. You will find the information you need here.