Juvenile Probation, Essay Example

A wealth of differing opinions exists regarding juvenile probation. While many feel that allowing a juvenile to avoid imprisonment in exchange for a probation agreement is acceptable, others disagree for a multitude of reasons. For instance, some argue that permitting a criminal to regain his/her status as a member of society puts the other citizens at risk if a relapse occurs (Parole In America’S Criminal System). Additionally, the cost of both parole and probation is significant considering the number of staff and resources required to ensure the individual is remaining in accordance with the legal requirements of the agreement (Broemmel). Clearly, the arguments against juvenile probation are abundant.

Conversely, supporters of juvenile probation maintain that the existence of probation programs is beneficial. While others feel probation puts the community at risk, supporters suggest that community safety levels are not decreased due to how closely offenders are monitored. Likewise, juvenile probation advocates stress that permitting offenders to function in society poses no threat because oftentimes offenders are required to participate in rehabilitation programs which could strengthen the offender’s character (Broemmel).

With that said, parole or probation should only be available to nonviolent juveniles with no previous criminal record. Likewise, parole or probation should not be available if the offender demonstrates any signs of potential relapse, uncooperativeness, or is a repeat offender. To ensure that juvenile probation or parole is successful, new policies must be adopted. For example, no exceptions should be made in regards to what percentage of a sentence can be served before becoming eligible for parole or probation. Additionally, the juvenile should be monitored extremely closely during the beginning and middle of their parole or probation to ensure that recidivism is not likely to occur. Overall, many different viewpoints exist regarding juvenile probation, but if new policies are created it is possible for the divide in opinions to decrease.

Works Cited

Broemmel, Mike. “Intensive Probation Pros and Cons | EHow.com.” EHow | How To Do Just About Everything! | How To Videos & Articles. Web. 01 July 2010. <http://www.ehow.com/facts_5474812_intensive-probation-pros-cons.html>.

“Parole In America’S Criminal System.” AllSands.com – Grains of Knowledge. Web. 01 July 2010. <http://www.allsands.com/history/events/parolecriminal_xsa_gn.htm>.