The term 'suspended sentence' refers to a legal ruling whereby an individual is found guilty of a crime but the imposition of a prison sentence is deferred. Instead, the individual must meet certain conditions to avoid detention. Synonyms for suspended sentence include probation, deferred sentence, conditional release, and alternative sentencing. Probation includes regular check-ins with a probation officer and compliance with specific conditions like drug testing or community service. A deferred sentence is similar, with the court holding off on imposing a sentence for a specific amount of time. Conditional release is often applied to those who have served part of their sentence before being released with specific conditions. Alternative sentencing includes community service, drug treatment programs, and house arrest.