A County Jail is a local detention facility where individuals are held while awaiting trial or serving short sentences, typically for misdemeanors. These jails are operated by county governments and are designed to house individuals who have been arrested for various offenses but have not yet been convicted. In contrast to state or federal prisons, which accommodate long-term inmates, county jails focus on short-term confinement. They often provide basic services such as meals, medical care, and access to legal resources. The environment can vary widely, depending on the facility and its management practices.