Criminal Procedure
Supervised Release
A period of federal supervision after imprisonment, with conditions that can lead to revocation if violated.
Governing rule: 18 U.S.C. § 3583
Plain-English definition
Supervised release is not parole. It starts after a federal prison sentence ends and places the person under probation-office supervision. Conditions may include reporting, treatment, employment requirements, location limits, testing, restitution payments, or technology restrictions.
How it works
If conditions are violated, the court can modify conditions, extend supervision, or revoke supervised release and impose additional imprisonment.
Why it matters
The sentence does not end at prison release. Supervised release can shape years of daily life and create new custody risk.
Related terms
More in Criminal Procedure
Allocution
A defendant’s opportunity to speak directly to the judge before sentence is imposed.
Arraignment
A criminal proceeding where charges are formally read or presented and the defendant enters an initial plea.
Bail
Release before trial under conditions designed to assure appearance and protect the community.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
The constitutional proof standard the government must meet to convict a defendant of a crime.
Bond
A financial or secured promise tied to a defendant’s release and future court appearances.
Indictment
A formal criminal charging document issued by a grand jury after finding probable cause to accuse the defendant.
Information
A criminal charging document filed by a prosecutor without a grand jury indictment.
Plea Agreement
An agreement in which a criminal defendant pleads guilty under negotiated terms with the government.
Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.