Probation Officer Interview

Department (City/State): __________________________

Branch of Government:

_____ Executive _____ Judicial

Number of POs employed by department: _____

Organizational Structure (Adult/Juvenile):

_____Combined

_____ Separate

Approximate caseload/workload: _____

Specialized Caseloads: ______yes ______no

How long have you personally worked as a PO?

What is the level of risk presented by your clients?

How do you determine level of risk?

Do officers carry a firearm and/or feel they need it when working with their clients?

What in-house sanctions do you consider when offenders are not adhering to their

conditions of probation/parole?

How do you decide when to file for a revocation?

Do you ever recommend early termination of probation? If so, in what circumstances?

What is a typical work week like for you?

How many hours do you spend meeting with offenders? Writing up reports?

How do you perceive your role as a PO? Do you feel it is more supervisory/law

enforcement or guidance/rehabilitation or some of both?

What do you like most about your job?

What do you like least?

What is the most difficult thing you have ever had to do in your role as a PO?

What has been the most gratifying?

Would you encourage others to work in community corrections? Why or why not?

What do you think of the current emphasis on the use of evidence-based practices?