Ever wondered what the real difference is between jail and prison? While often used interchangeably, they serve distinct purposes. Jails are typically short-term holding facilities run by local city or county governments. Think of them as the waiting room for the justice system. People are held in jail awaiting trial, serving sentences for minor crimes (misdemeanors), or being held for transfer to other facilities.
Prisons, on the other hand, are state or federal institutions designed for long-term incarceration. They house individuals convicted of more serious crimes (felonies) and serving sentences lasting a year or more. Think of armed robbery, drug trafficking or other similar crimes.
So, in short: Jails are for short stays and pre-trial detention, while prisons are for longer sentences after a conviction. Knowing the difference can help you understand the complexities of the criminal justice system.
