Probation and Parole in Ireland: Law and Practice

Probation and parole are two vital components of any criminal justice system. Practitioners working in both are responsible for the assessment and supervision of those members of society who have committed criminal offences and are subject to court-ordered penal sanction. Those working in probation and parole must bring a range of knowledge and skills to bear in their daily work: championing community safety and justice, promoting offender reintegration, and seeking to reduce offending and the harm it causes. All of that practice is in turn underpinned by law. Professional practice in probation and parole is also increasingly informed by research findings regarding ‘what works’ and indeed ‘who works.’

Probation and Parole in Ireland: Law and Practice is the first book to comprehensively describe and explain the underpinnings and workings of two key parts of the penal system—probation and parole. Drawing on the authors’ extensive experience of working in the criminal justice and penal systems, this book presents a clear description and analysis of the stages and components of probation and parole work.

This book summarises the relevant legislation and international standards, points to key case law and explores the development of research and practice in the area of probation and parole in Ireland, and related issues.