Investigative Role of the United States Probation Officer Under Sentencing Guidelines

• NCJ Number: 111958
• Journal: Federal Probation Volume: 51 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1987) Pages: 43-53
• Author(s): S K Grunin; J Watkins
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 11 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article examines the new skills that will be required of probation officers in preparing presentence investigation reports under guideline sentencing.

Abstract

The guideline provisions change the sentencing process by providing rules for courts to follow in sentencing and by making decision rules more explicit. The presentence report requirements have been changed to convey the facts in support of guideline applications. It must contain information on the history and characteristics of the offender; a classification of the offender and the offense; an assessment of the financial, social, psychological, and medical impact on the victim of the offense; and information about the nature and extent of nonprison programs and resources available to the defendant. Under these guidelines, probation officers will have to hone evaluative skills -- weighing evidence and making independent judgments about conflicting information. Officers also will need skills in resolving disputes between opposing parties, especially objectivity and a willingness to listen. Guidelines also require that officers improve their testifying and witness skills. Finally, they will have to develop the skills needed to apply the guidelines consistently. 3 footnotes and 1 table.