Yes. Turns out following the rules can go a long way in jail. In most cases, inmates who show good behavior can reduce the time they serve. It’s called good time credit (who would’ve thought?). The better you behave, the sooner you can leave.
Jails are run by the state and hold people serving short sentences or waiting for trial. Prisons are federal and hold people convicted of more serious crimes for over a year.
Both jail and prison inmates can earn time off their sentence for good behavior.
If you behave well, you can get up to 54 days off each year you serve. That means less time behind bars. But if you cause problems, you can lose those credits.
People serving life sentences or on death row aren’t eligible for early release.
Good behavior means doing what’s asked. Showing up for head counts, keeping your cell clean, and respecting officers and other inmates.
Simple actions like these can make a big difference in how much time you serve.
Parole lets some inmates finish their sentences outside prison while under supervision. Parolees must follow strict rules and check in with a parole officer. If they break those rules, they can be sent back to prison.
Good behavior can help you get out early, while bad behavior keeps you there. It’s that simple. If you follow the rules and stay respectful, you could earn your freedom a little sooner.
