NCJ Number
119857
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 53 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1989) Pages: 3-11
Date Published
1989
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Guideline sentencing under the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 has redefined the roles and responsibilities of Federal probation officers during the sentencing process by requiring them to make important guideline-related decisions during their presentencing investigations.
Abstract
These decisions may affect the defendant's sentence in the United States district court. These guideline tasks are extremely important and should be monitored by probation management staff in each office and the Probation Division of the Administrative Office of the Courts. Communication is the most important component in identifying and resolving problems related to establishing the facts of the case or addressing circumvention of the guidelines by prosecutors. Thus, Federal probation officers and districts must initiate routine discussions to address these issues and fulfill their responsibilities. It is of utmost importance for Federal probation officers to work diligently as part of a unified system to uphold these responsibilities and accomplish guideline tasks in an effective and professional manner. 8 references.