Probation and Pretrial Services Officer

Job Details for Probation and Pretrial Services Officer

Court Name/Organization Wisconsin Western Probation and Pretrial Services

Overview of the Position U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Officers perform functions that aid judicial officers in making informed decisions about persons charged with and convicted of criminal offenses, as well as supervise such persons to assure their compliance with conditions of release. Officers encourage long-term positive change for the individuals they serve by fairly administering justice and providing investigative and supervision services while protecting the community.

The Western District of Wisconsin is a combined probation and pretrial services district that serves 44 counties. The district has courthouses in Madison and Eau Claire, with its headquarters located in Madison. Our employees gain invaluable experience by contributing to all facets of operations, offering a unique opportunity to make a significant impact.
We are committed to the continued implementation of evidence-based practices in the management and oversight of defendants and persons under post-conviction supervision. We are dedicated to ensuring that all aspects of service to the Court and the community remain at high levels. Delivering this high level of performance is essential to accomplish our mission, which is as follows:“Collectively, we contribute to a safer community by fostering positive, lasting change in the lives of those we serve.”

We believe leadership is a shared responsibility of all team members. Our core values are excellence, compassion, integrity, teamwork, continuous learning, respect, wellness, adaptability, and resilience. These values are the foundation that underlies our work, how we interact with each other, and the strategies we employ to fulfill our mission.

The duties specified herein are intended to provide generalized examples of the major duties and responsibilities that are performed by U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Officers within any unit and do not reflect all duties performed by positions covered in this announcement.

• Conduct pretrial investigations and prepare pretrial reports for the Court with recommendations addressing risk of non-appearance and risk of danger to the community.
  
  Gather comprehensive, factual, and objective information that is verified through collateral resources. Provide written and verbal assistance to the court regarding pretrial procedure sin a clear, logical, and concise format.
• Conduct presentence investigations and prepare reports for the Court with recommendations for sentencing. Preparation of these reports requires interviewing defendants and their families; investigating the offense, prior record and financial status ofthe defendant; and contacting collateral sources. An integral part of the presentenceinvestigative process, including responses to objections, is the interpretation and application of the U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines and relevant case law.
• Supervise persons under pretrial and post-conviction supervision to promote positive lifestyle changes, to maximize compliance with court-imposed conditions, to reduce riskto the community, and to provide for correctional treatment. Develop and implement appropriate strategies using evidence-based practices.
• Maintain personal contact with persons under pretrial and post-conviction supervision through telephone and electronic means and visits in the office, home, and community.
  
  Personal visits may take place in neighborhoods or environments where illegal activities and violence could occur. Investigate employment, sources of income, lifestyle and associates to assess risks, criminogenic needs, and compliance with court-ordered conditions of supervision.
• Detect and investigate any violations of conditions of supervision, including illicit substance use, and implement appropriate strategies and sanctions. Report violations of the conditions of supervision to the Court and appropriate authorities.
• Collaborate with and seek information from a variety of sources such as the U.S. Parole Commission, Bureau of Prisons, defendants/persons under supervision and their families,community partners, law enforcement officials, treatment providers, victims, and attorneys. Treat all persons with dignity and respect.
• Prepare an array of reports and testify in court as to the basis of findings, case information,and guideline applications. Serve as resources and…