NCJ Number
73169
Journal
Journal of Probation and Parole Volume: 12 Dated: (Fall 1980) Pages: 43-54
Date Published
1980
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Results are reported from a survey of Florida judges to determine their assessment of the current probation system and the likelihood of their suport for an improved and expanded system.
Abstract
Efforts at probation reform often fail because they lack support from judges. Circuit court judges in Florida were mailed a questionnaire which was designed to determine the level of support that could be expected from judges in using an expanded and improved probation system. Results showed that the judges were generally positive toward the probation system, particularly in areas where they had personal contact with it. Further, the judges showed an openness to using an improved probation system, particularly for offenders convicted of nonviolent crimes. The survey results strongly indicated that probation reform efforts could succeed, since judges showed a willingness to use probation more in sentencing, provided the quality of supervision and the services provided were good. Tabular data and footnotes are provided.