Legal Definitions - penal institution

A penal institution is a place where convicted criminals, especially felons, are confined by the state or federal government. It is also known as a penitentiary or adult correctional institution. The purpose of a penal institution is to punish criminals for their crimes and to protect society from them.

• Prison: A state or federal facility where convicted criminals are confined for a certain period of time.
• Jail: A facility where people are held before they are convicted or sentenced.
• Private prison: A prison that is managed by a private company instead of a government agency.

These examples illustrate the different types of penal institutions that exist. Prisons are the most common type of penal institution, where convicted criminals are sent to serve their sentences. Jails are used to hold people who are awaiting trial or sentencing. Private prisons are run by private companies and are often controversial because they are motivated by profit rather than rehabilitation.