NCJ Number
75193
Date Published
1980
Length
91 pages
Annotation
The technical assistance team analyzed problems related to resource allocation in the District Attorney's (DA'S) Office of Ventura County, Calif., and examined the office Prosecutors Management Information System (PROMIS) for its ability to alleviate the strain on support staff.
Abstract
The team addressed those problems stemming from paperwork and organizational procedures; financial management and budgeting systems; space and equipment requirements; and special operational programs, projects, and procedures unique to the delivery of prosecutorial services. Interviews were conducted with the members of the DA'S office: who were directly involved in the problem areas, as well as with personnel in the police, courts, and the public defender's office. The recommendations of the technical assistance team as a result of their visit included replacement of present temporary or Comprehensive Employment and Training Act clerical employees with more efficient permanent personnel and the hiring of additional secretaries to cope with the present number of attorneys. The accuracy of the DA office records was also questioned. Additional clerical employees were found to be needed to handle the caseloads of the Administrative Section, the Felony Work-Up Section, and the Career Criminal and Sex Crimes Unit. The morale of support staff, the development of an office manual with job descriptions for the clerical area, and a clear path for career developent and advancement for support staff were all areas found to be in need of improvement, along with some computer problems and updating of the complaint forms in use at the office. Background information on the Team and job descriptions of DA office personnel are appended along with memoranda and sample forms.