1. I sentence you to 18 months of probation," the judge says. What benefits do you expect from serving out your sentence in the community?

2. Why is probation considered a second chance?

3. Probationers enjoy many of the same rights as unconvicted citizens. But a probationer's right to know on what information his or her sentence is based is a hotly debated issue. Why do many probation officers object to making PSI reports public?

4. How do you feel about placing on probation those who have committed felonies? How about placing sex offenders on probation?

5. How would one develop the attributes described as needed to be an effective probation officer?