The work of a probation officer is mainly with people who have committed an offence and are returning or have returned to the community: their job is to try to ensure that these people turn over a new leaf, so to speak. However, there are also other aspects to their work. In court work, they advise the court about all the circumstances surrounding the offender's situation, and make recommendations: they also enforce court orders and provide supervision programmes, such as with people who are serving community service sentences. They also meet regularly with people who are under a probation order. They also work with prisoners, helping and advising them: sometimes they work in a half-way house where prisoners go to assist in the transition from prison life to life in the community. They also mediate in family disputes regarding children in divorce proceedings.
Description
2012
