Probation

Paper Summary:

The paper states that the origin of probation dates back to the Middle Ages when harsh penalties for even menial crimes were commonplace. The paper comments that today, it's evolved into a tool that the court system can utilize in place of either an entire or a partial prison sentence. This paper explores the history of probation, as well as provides examples of current day probation practices. In addition, the effectiveness of probation is explored.

Outline:
Introduction
History of Probation:
Examples of Probation
The Effectiveness of Probation

From the Paper:

"Many new alternatives to punishments were devised. These included: the purchase of royal pardons, judges having the ability to refrain from applying statutes or form a lenient interpretation, stolen property could be devalued to create a lesser crime, and the clergy, judicial reprieve, sanctuary, and abjuration gave offenders a degree of protection from the previously harsh sentences. In addition, the practice of 'binding over for good behavior' was enacted, as a temporary release so offenders could take measures to secure pardons or lesser sentences. At this time, also some courts began to suspend some offender's sentences . Across the Atlantic, different judicial practices were being implemented."

Sample of Sources Used:

• A Brief History of Probation. No date. New York City Department of Probation. December 6, 2007 <http://www.nyc.gov/html/prob/html/history.html>.
• Browning, D. "Minnesota Frequent Offenders Thrive." IRE Journal 23(4) Jul/Aug 2000: pp. 32-33. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOHost. University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ. December 6, 2007 <http://web.ebscohost.com>.
• O'Connor, T. Probation in a System of Justice. 21 Sept 2004. North Carolina Wesleyian College. December 6, 2007 <http://faculty.ncwc.edu/toconnor/294/294lect06.htm>.
• What are the Typical Examples of Probation Condition? No date. Free Advice. December 6, 2007 <http://criminal-law.freeadvice.com/parole_probation/typical_probation_conditions.htm>.
• What is the Difference Between a Probation, Parole, and Pardon? No date. Free Advice. December 6, 2007 <http://criminal-law.freeadvice.com/parole_probation/probation_parole_pardon.htm>.

More papers on Probation:

• Analytical Essay # 123306 : "Offenders and Probation"
• Essay # 69838 : "Probation"
• Comparison Essay # 121091 : "Probation and Parole"

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