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What skills do you think are most important for someone interested in being a probation officer?

#law #court #probation-officer #officer #law-enforcement

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Sheila’s Answer

Hello Samoa:

Thank you for your question. Here's some information on Probation Officer that I hope you find helpful.

Probation Officers - who are sometimes referred to as community supervision officers, supervise people who have been placed on probation instead of sent to prison. They work to ensure that the probationer is not a danger to the community and to help in their rehabilitation through frequent visits with the probationer. Probation Officers write reports that detail each probationer’s treatment plan and their progress since being put on probation. Most work exclusively with either adults or juveniles.

To become a Probation Officer you will need these important qualities. . .
* Communication skills. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists must be able to effectively interact with probationers, probationers’ family members, lawyers, judges, treatment providers, and law enforcement.

* Critical-thinking skills. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists must be able to assess the needs of individual probationers before determining the best resources for helping them.

* Decision-making skills. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists must consider the best rehabilitation plan for offenders.

* Emotional stability. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists cope with hostile individuals or otherwise upsetting circumstances on the job.

* Organizational skills. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists manage multiple cases at the same time.

Other strong skills you will need include: problem-solving, planning and relationship building.

As for education, you'll need a bachelor’s degree in social work, criminal justice, behavioral sciences, or a related field is usually required. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.

When it comes to training, most probation officers and correctional treatment specialists must complete a training program sponsored by their state government or the federal government, after which they may have to pass a certification test. In addition, they may be required to work as trainees for up to 1 year before being offered a permanent position.

Best of luck to you on your journey.

~ Sheila

Sheila recommends the following next steps:

Research: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm#tab-4
Research: https://study.com/becoming_a_probation_officer.html
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for your answer. That helped a lot. Appreciate it. Samoa
Thank you comment icon I'm glad I was able to help. Please feel free to let me know if I could assist you with any additional questions. Sheila Jordan
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Henry’s Answer

Not all people on probation are harden criminals. You need to evaluate people and handle them with care until you get a feel for them. Be sincere and honest with them. The first time you lie to them, they will lose any trust they have in you or the probation system. Remember they are human and the court felt that they are redeemable. They made a mistake and need a second chance.

Henry recommends the following next steps:

Once you get to know the person. Try to find out why they did what they did. Cousel them and see if there is some way you can help them in you profession.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your answer Henry. Samoa
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Hilary’s Answer

Any job in law enforcement and justice should always be respectful of everyone. Even when working with “bad” people it is important to be restrained but respectful. Always treat others with a professional respect.
Thank you comment icon Awesome. Thank You!! Samoa
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