NCJ Number
79987
Date Published
1981
Length
158 pages
Annotation
This textbook for undergraduate students examines conceptual, historical, philosophical, structural, functional, and legal aspects of probation and parole as well as the role of professionals and volunteers in discretionary decisionmaking and the supervised release of offenders within the community.
Abstract
Society's response to crime and criminals is examined in the context of a typology of societal responses to crime, ideological bases for these responses, and current societal responses to crime through community corrections. Basic concepts of community corrections are explored. Separate chapters on probation and parole discuss basic scope and functions, historical development, and organization. The decisionmaking process in probation is reviewed, emphasizing the role of the trial court and of the probation officer. Next, a chapter on the decisionmaking process in parole considers such factors as the impact of sentencing statutes on parole, the parole hearing, and review of parole decisions. Other sections are devoted to the supervision process in probation and parole, including the purpose and nature of supervision, prerelease casework, management of probation and parole supervision, and revocation of probation or parole; management of community resources in probation and parole, focusing on pretrial diversion programs, halfway houses and community treatment centers, and offender community-service programs; and volunteer work in probation and parole. The final chapter highlights current and emerging trends in probation and parole, such as the present trend away from indeterminate sentences and the increased reliance on scientific research. Chapter notes, tables, and sample forms are provided.