What is recommended regarding pretrial services agencies?

The recommendation that every jurisdiction should have a pretrial services agency stems from the understanding that these agencies play a crucial role in the criminal justice system. Pretrial services are designed to assess the risk of defendants and to provide supervision and support, which can help ensure that individuals return for their court appearances while also reducing unnecessary detention.

Having pretrial services in every jurisdiction allows for a standardized approach to pretrial releases, ensuring that all defendants, regardless of their location, receive fair assessment and assistance. It emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of individuals in the justice system and can lead to better outcomes, both for the defendants and for the community, by reducing overcrowding in jails and promoting more effective resource allocation.

In smaller jurisdictions, the need for structured pretrial assessments is just as critical as in larger areas, as it helps maintain consistency and equity in how defendants are treated across different regions. This reinforces the idea that pretrial services are an essential component of a fair and effective justice system.