The History and Nature of Probation in the United States

Question 3 • Introduction to Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security

Which statement best evaluates the merits of the judge’s role in probation?

Answer

Judges ultimately are the decision makers and so they do all the investigation of the accused themselves with the help of clerks.

Judges turn over to probation officers the decision making regarding probation or incarceration because their court schedules are too full.

Judges meet with the probation officers continually through the presentence investigation (PSI) in order to remain completely informed.

Judges decide on whether to select probation or incarceration, and because of a huge case load judges must rely on probation officers’ recommendation.

Explanation

Judges make the final decision about whether a person receives probation or incarceration. Before sentencing, probation officers investigate the person and prepare a presentence investigation report with a recommendation, which helps judges manage decisions despite heavy caseloads. Choice B is wrong because judges do not hand over their sentencing authority to probation officers.

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