Is there a difference between a correctional facility and a jail?

Answer by  patti (29325)

A jail, state prison, federal prison and juvenile detention center are "correctional facilities. " A jail is short-term. State and federal prisons are long-term.

Answer by  MsLaw (63)

Any imprisoning facility that deprives people of their freedom can be considered a correctional facility. This includes a jail, a prison, or a penitentiary. All are used as a means of correcting errant behavior by criminals of all kinds. A jail, however, is often used for men or women whose terms are shorter and whose crimes are less serious.