Adult Probation Process

Adults are defined by the Court as anyone older than age 16. Below is a step-by-step explanation of the unit’s role in the criminal justice system, from investigation to supervision. The Department of Probation’s (DOP) primary goal is to build stronger and safer communities by fostering opportunities for probation clients to move out of the criminal justice system.

Investigation

The Department of Probation is required by the State to submit a Pre-Sentence Investigation (PSI) upon the direction of the Court.

The purpose of the PSI is to help the Court reach an appropriate decision. The investigating Probation Officer:

• Interviews the defendant and all relevant parties, including victims (if applicable), in order to assess the extent of any physical, psychological or financial injuries.
• Analyzes the individual’s criminal, social, scholastic, psychological, health, employment, alcohol and/or substance abuse histories.
• Reviews all relevant court documents and verifies all addresses, visiting the home if necessary.

After a thorough investigation, the Department provides the judge with a sentence recommendation. In addition to helping the Court with sentencing, the PSI forms the basis of the Probation Supervision process.

Adult Supervision

Upon sentencing in criminal court or supreme court, a defendant may be placed on probation supervision.​

Supervision will often include referrals to community-based resources and programs designed to meet specific client needs.​

​DOP's supervision model involves tailoring resources and requirements to the needs of the client. Once sentenced to probation, clients are assessed and assigned to an appropriate unit. Assessments are based on socioeconomic history and criminal history. Reporting requirements vary based on this assessment. Furthermore, the needs of the client are evaluated to ensure that referrals and resources support the client's road to leading a law-abiding life.