Understanding the Federal Criminal Justice System

The video provides an overview of the U.S. federal courts and the role of probation and pretrial services. It explains the adjudication process, including plea negotiations and the pre-sentence investigation conducted by probation officers. The investigation covers the defendant's personal, health, and financial background to assist in sentencing. The video also details the preparation and review of the pre-sentence report, which is crucial for the court's final sentencing decision.

What is the primary focus of the U.S. probation and pretrial services office?

• To educate the public about the criminal justice system

• To prosecute criminal cases

• To oversee the rehabilitation of offenders

• To provide legal defense for defendants

During the adjudication stage, what typically happens after a defendant pleads guilty?

• The case goes to trial

• A pre-sentence investigation report is ordered

• The defendant is immediately sentenced

• The charges are dropped

Where does the initial interview for a pre-sentence investigation usually take place?

• In the prosecutor's office

• In the courtroom

• At the defendant's home

• At the U.S. probation office or local detention facility

What type of information is gathered during the pre-sentence investigation?

• Defendant's political affiliations

• Defendant's personal and family data

• Defendant's financial status

• Defendant's favorite hobbies

Why is a defendant's medical history important during the pre-sentence investigation?

• For setting bail amounts

• For deciding the trial date

• For classification and facility assignment if imprisoned

• For determining the defendant's guilt

How does the U.S. probation officer use a defendant's employment history?

• To assess the defendant's skill sets and income sources

• To set bail amounts

• To determine the defendant's guilt

• To decide the trial date

What is the purpose of verifying a defendant's financial information?

• To assess the ability to pay a fine

• To determine the defendant's guilt

• To decide the trial date

• To set bail amounts

What is the final step in the pre-sentence investigation process?

• The defendant is sentenced

• The pre-sentence report is finalized and submitted

• The defendant is released on bail

• The charges are dropped

Who reviews the pre-sentence investigation report before sentencing?

• The general public

• The court and parties involved

• The U.S. probation officer

• The defendant's family

What should a defendant do if they find inaccuracies in the pre-sentence report?

• Ignore them

• Report them to the media

• Alert their attorney

• Contact the judge directly