What is the purpose of conducting a pretrial investigation on all defendants in custody?

The primary purpose of conducting a pretrial investigation on all defendants in custody is to gather necessary information before their first court appearance. This investigation serves as a foundational step that helps the court make informed decisions regarding the defendant’s release conditions, potential risk to the community, and flight risk.

Information obtained during this investigation includes the defendant's background, criminal history, ties to the community, and other relevant factors that may influence the court's decision-making process. Collecting this information early ensures that the court has a comprehensive view of the defendant's situation, which is critical in determining appropriate pretrial release conditions and ensuring justice is served fairly.

While other options might touch on aspects related to pretrial proceedings, none focus on the core objective of gathering essential information that informs the initial judicial review.