Regardless of the branch of criminal justice you choose to work in, writing will be an expectation on the job. Continuous practice in writing will help you develop accuracy, clarity, and concision in your writing, which can be a crucial element in the pursuit of justice. 

As a probation or parole officer, you will supervise and guide convicted people in the corrections phase of their sentence and work to prevent their return to the criminal justice system. A clear understanding of the corrections system and related special issues will equip you to serve your clients.

Assignment Deliverable

Create a 525- to 700-word handout explaining key aspects of the U.S. corrections system. 

Your handout will be used in an information packet for family members of individuals who have been arrested and are in police custody.

• Summarize the purpose of community corrections. Include relevant details about the evolution of corrections throughout history.
• Describe 1 or 2 types of community corrections options for programs and sanctions available to offenders. Include relevant details and/or examples about their purpose, goals, and outcomes.
• Compare the duties of a probation officer versus a parole officer. Include relevant details and/or examples to support your comparison.
• Compare adult corrections to the juvenile corrections system.

Review your writing carefully to ensure it is clear, concise, and organized.

Consider using relevant images to support your ideas. 

Note: Use of images is encouraged but not required.

Cite 2 scholarly sources in addition to the textbook.

Format any citations in your handout according to APA guidelines.

Submit your assessment.