Probation is a court-ordered period of supervised release that allows an offender to remain in the community instead of serving time in custody, subject to specific conditions. Probation orders typically include requirements like reporting to a probation officer, keeping the peace, not possessing weapons, and avoiding contact with victims. Additional conditions might include community service, counselling, curfews, or abstaining from alcohol and drugs. Violating probation conditions can result in additional charges and imprisonment. Probation officers monitor compliance and support offenders' rehabilitation. Probation is commonly used for less serious offences or as part of a sentence combined with a shorter jail term.