How does probation differ from community supervision (parole)?

Probation is fundamentally a suspended sentence, which means that a judge may impose a sentence but allows the individual to serve that sentence outside of incarceration, conditioned on compliance with certain terms and conditions. Typically, this involves regular check-ins with a probation officer, adherence to laws, and sometimes specific requirements like drug testing or community service. The person on probation is still under the supervision of the legal system, but they do not serve time in prison unless they violate the terms of their probation.

This understanding is key when distinguishing probation from community supervision, which often encompasses parole. In contrast, parole is granted to individuals who have served a portion of their prison sentence and are allowed to complete the remainder of their sentence in the community, under supervision. Therefore, stating that probation is a suspended sentence accurately reflects its nature and role in the criminal justice system, which differentiates it from community supervision, making it the correct answer.