NCJ Number
87521
Date Published
1981
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Studies and surveys indicate that pretrial services performed by units under probation offices perform at the same level with if not better than pretrial agencies under an independent board, and the operating costs are significantly less.
Abstract
Probation departments can provide a continuity of services from arrest and arraignment through sentencing and ultimately through probation and parole services. Service to the courts can be more expeditious when provided by one department (the probation department), preventing duplication. Under such an arrangement, the presentence process could begin at the earliest possible stage, so that necessary information can be gathered for the courts in the shortest possible time, which is an important factor in implementing the requirements of the Speedy Trial Act. Most importantly, the placement of pretrial services within the probation service should contribute to the integration rather than the fragmentation of the criminal justice system. Establishing an independent unit for pretrial services requires an expenditure which would be unnecessary if such services are placed in existing probation departments. Qualified clerical and professional staff are already in place to provide pretrial services nationwide on 24 hours notice. Attached are a report of the Federal Probation Officers Association on the 'Implementation of Pretrial Services on a Nationwide Basis,' a position paper of the Federal Probation Officers Association, and a map of the network of U.S. probation offices and the network of pretrial services offices. (Author summary modified)