The purpose of conditional release supervision is to protect society by helping offenders become law-abiding citizens by ensuring control and by providing them with assistance and programs, in order to minimize the risk of their committing new offences.

When released, all offenders must adhere to certain standard conditions set out in the release certificate. For example, they must travel directly to their homes and report regularly to their parole supervisor. Additional conditions may also be imposed to control behaviour. These may include curfews, restrictions on movement, prohibitions on drinking, and prohibitions on associating with certain people (such as children, former victims, and so on). CSC staff can take action if they believe the offender is violating release conditions or may commit another crime. They can suspend the release and return the offender directly to prison until the risk is reassessed. Some offenders may remain in prison. Others may be released again, but under more severe restrictions, and after more supervision or community support services are in place.