A judge or court grants probation. Probation is typically ordered by a judge as an alternative to imposing a jail sentence, based on the circumstances and seriousness of the crime, and the assessment that the offender is not a threat to society
. The court that tried and decided the case is the one authorized to grant probation, considering factors such as the offender's character, background, and the risk of reoffending
. Probation allows the offender to remain in the community under certain conditions and supervision instead of serving time in prison