NCJ Number
81634
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
Individuals who work in the pretrial release and diversion area discuss elements common to all successful pretrial services programs. The videotaped discussion is addressed to colleagues working in the pretrial field who are concerned with the problems of institutionalizing pretrial services.
Abstract
The panelists include a State senator, a psychologist active in juvenile detention, the director of a pretrial intervention project, and a bail agency director. Institutionalization of pretrial services is defined as (1) acceptance of the concept as an integral part of local criminal justice process and (2) provision of the means for continued operation and funding. Pretrial services can be institutionalized through court rule or legislation. The benefits of court rule as an option are its binding procedure, its quick implementation, and its reduced susceptibility to political influence. However, a court ruling can be easily attacked by prosecutors. Legislation is more desirable because it has the weight of law and thus truly legitimizes the pretrial sevice concept. However, legislation involves a lengthy process and is difficult to amend. The need for a pretrial program must be established and a planning strategy begun early. A successful strategy will depend on the collection and dissemination of a solid base of information about the program, including cost-effectiveness data; identification of the community power base and exertion of effective pressure through lobbying; creativity in finding additional support and funding sources; and the cooperation of the media. Panel members illustrate the application of these principles in retelling their own experiences. For the final conference report, see NCJ 51935.