Future of the Probation Service: A View From the Courts (From Criminal Justice System: A Central Role for the Probation Service, P 9-21, 1989)

• NCJ Number: 121356
• Author(s): R Lymbery
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 13 pages
• Corporate Author: University of Cambridge
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom
• Note: Proceedings of the Clarke Hall Residential Conference held at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, in July 1989.

Annotation

The Probation Service has a vital role to play in the disposition of convicted defendants who stand before the Criminal Courts each day for sentencing.

Abstract

In order for Probation to have necessary credibility, careful consideration must be given to a number of matters: (1) The sentencing court must always give primary consideration to the wider interests of the public as a factor in determining probation; (2) The Service should provide the Court with accurate, relevant information and advice to enable the offender to live in the community within the law; and (3) The Court must weigh with care the suitability of each and every possible candidate before making an order. In addition, the Probation Officer should be the one who commands the respect of the Probationer during the course of their relationship and ensures that the terms of the order are observed and obeyed. Finally, the Probation Service should be adequately funded to provide a sufficient number of officers, suitable premises, and equipment. A reappraisal of the penal system is necessary so that Sentencing Courts have further options open to them to combine training with public safety.