As we have seen, the presentence investigation may be the first opportunity for the systemusually through the probation departmentto consider thoroughly the implications of the defendant's offense and background. It is an initial step in assessing the offender's risk and needs, and as such, as large amount of information is amassed. An interview with the offender is really the backbone of the process.

Imagine that you are conducting an interview with a defendant as part of the PSI investigation process. Answer the following questions:

• What information would you want to get about the offender's family and why? Why might you start with this?
• What kind of insights could you get from questions about marital or other relationships?
• What kind of employment information might be useful and why?

Please be sure to validate your opinions and ideas with citations and references