Probation Problem Solving: Reflecting on Strategies Improving Risk Communication and Case Planning

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8:00 am - 9:30 am

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Most justice agencies use a risk/need tool and case planning strategies for clients. However, research and experience tells us that these tools are not always implemented as intended, affecting how the officer and client discuss and use the case plan throughout supervision. In this presentation, we discuss the Quality Improvement model of PDSA, how it helps solve local concerns, and how it enables line staff to improve how they use probation strategies in daily practice. We have added to last year’s presentation by detailing how one probation office continued to use the strategy to not only enhance officer communication of the risk/need tool results to clients, but also improve the quality of the goals/incentives detailed in the case. Additionally, this year’s presentation considers officer perspectives about the PDSA strategy and lessons for replicating the PDSA strategy in other settings. Findings have broad implications for how offices can make data-informed decisions to innovate locally, while enriching the officer-client relationship.