Probation Officers
Keeping Others out of Trouble
Let’s face it – the life of probation officers sounds pretty exciting. Often referred to as community supervisors, these employees make sure that offenders stay out of trouble. Seeing as these offenders have been put on probation instead of a jail sentence, it is crucial that employees do everything they can to change their perspective on life. While the position of a probation officer is most common, there are many other employment opportunities in this field. Parole officers may actually assist in similar duties. However, these employees make sure that the offender agrees and abides by all of their regulations.
A probation officer, on the other hand, personally connects with the offender and their families. Though it is often a requirement for the offender to meet at their office once or twice per week, many find it easier to go to their homes. This allows them to feel more comfortable, and perhaps could help them use other resources for assistance. For instance, some parole agencies actually use churches, community clubs, and neighbors to help with the process.
Often time’s offenders have no choice but to stay in their homes. Given that many are required to wear an electronic device, they cannot stray too far. This gives parole officers access to their location at all times. While monitoring cases, they also spend a great deal of time in the court system. By investigating their case’s background, present updates and review sentences, they can easily help the court figure out what to do with the present situation. In some cases, they may even be required to be an actual witness, if they need to defend their client.
Another popular position in this field is a Correctional Treatment Specialist. Generally, they are responsible for monitoring the improvement of inmates. Additionally, they also work together with probation officers to make sure that inmates are improving effectively and perhaps discuss release plans. What is even more interesting is that treatment specialists are able to develop education programs for inmates. This allows offenders to improve their real world skills, which may enable them to live a normal, successful life when their jail time has ended. Furthermore, they make sure that these inmates undergo therapy – usually based around anger management, drug and sexual counseling, as well as the act of coping.
The one downside to working as a probations officer or correctional treatment specialist is that the stress can often be overwhelming. While some only handle a few selected cases that require supplementary support and care, others find themselves working on up to 100 minor cases. Fortunately, as technology progresses, officers will have a much easier time balancing such a workload. Already, computers and fax machines are helping quite a bit. With drug testing and electronic devices which monitor an inmate’s activity, the ability to have a life is feasible.
Before going into such a field, it is important to realize that situations can often lead to dangerous events. In many cases, there are families of offenders who may be very difficult to deal with. In addition, massive amounts of travel may also be required. Despite the fact that 40 hours a week are the norm, officers still have to be available twenty-four hours a day, if something were to go wrong. Delivering urine samples to a variety of areas is also required, resulting in extra stress and late hours. Nonetheless, in the end, most workers admit that their jobs are unquestionably rewarding. By helping others get back on track, one feels as if they have done something good for society.
Qualifications for Probation Officers
Whether you are looking to become a probation officer or a correctional treatment specialist – there are many rigid requirements. Most agencies require an applicant to have at least a bachelor’s degree in social work or criminal justice. Furthehave work related experience (perhaps from a series of internships through the university). Unfortunately, one also has to take a number of oral, physical, and mental exams. In order to become an officer, you absolutely must be healthy in every area. Not only do you have to be at least 21 years of age, but you should have a clean record and be knowledgeable about regulations.
Since the life of a probation officer is anything but glamorous, it is clear why many would want to steer away from such a stressful position. If you are still intrigued by criminal related opportunities, there are plenty of related jobs. Other occupations include social workers, human service assistants, as well as counselors for those who need a lending hand.