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Probation officers, police officers, and parole officers have a very similar job description. The probation officer is responsible for investigating their probationers personal history, background reports and home or living environment. After a thorough investigation, the probation officer reports their findings to the court and then prepares prepared to make recommendations on future actions. Sometimes probation officers will interview their probationers to determine the how their supervision has affected their lives and if it has made any permanent, positive changes.
Some of the major duties of probation officers include:
- Is responsible for assisting as needed in courtroom procedure during court sessions.
- Must keep and maintains accurate case records for each of their probationers.
- Prepare monthly statistical and performance reports on the status of their overall caseload.
- Gathers and evaluates data through investigation and supervision on each offender. This involves getting to know each offender including where they live, go to school, go to church, work, friends, etc.
- Monitors payment orders of the court to be sure their probationers are paying their fines, restitution, fees, etc.
- Is responsible for following a complete evaluation, referring probationers to community agencies that can help them with their specific and individual needs.
- Establishes an ongoing relationship with probationers.
- Enforces and carries out the orders of the court.
- Documents facts and may be responsible to testify in court with respect to the probationer’s activities, behavior and quality of life.
- Must follow all legal procedures, bring violations of the probationer to the court as required.
