What are the two main types of corrections facilities?

The identification of jails and prisons as the two main types of correctional facilities is grounded in their primary functions and operational structures. Jails are typically short-term facilities operated by local governments, designed to hold individuals who are awaiting trial or sentencing, or who are serving short sentences, often less than one year. They accommodate a diverse population, including both pretrial detainees and individuals who have been sentenced for minor offenses.

Prisons, in contrast, are long-term facilities that house individuals convicted of serious crimes, typically serving longer sentences. Prisons are managed at the state or federal level and their primary focus is on the incarceration of felons.

The distinction between jails and prisons is critical in understanding the correctional system as they serve different purposes within the continuum of corrections. Jails deal primarily with individuals who have not yet been tried or who are completing minor sentences, while prisons are intended for those who are serving significant time for more serious offenses. This differentiation is essential for any discussion regarding the structure and function of corrections.