Judicial and Institutional Services
Methodology

Methodology: Probation

J&IS carries out its work using evidence-based methods. All advisory work, supervision, client guidance, and execution of judicial orders are done by trained professionals who continue to develop their skills.

Probation & Parole Services:

The main methodology used in probation is Werken in Gedwongen Kader (Working in an Enforced Framework), implemented in 2018. This approach requires specialized knowledge of professional standards, forensic practices, the criminal justice system, risk management, and the development of criminal behavior.

Probation officers must communicate clearly, take a firm and professional position with clients, and work closely with partners in- and outside the justice chain. Successful reintegration depends on cooperation with organizations involved in employment, income, housing, health care, and treatment. This work is carried out in multidisciplinary teams.

Integrated Diagnostic Instrument

The GDI, implemented in 2021, is a structured risk assessment. Probation officers use this tool when preparing advice for judicial authorities such as the judge, prosecutors, prison director, and the parole board. It helps identify risk and protective factors, assess the risk of reoffending, and recommend special conditions that may be imposed by the judge, prosecutor, or Minister of Justice. GDI includes questions that support victim awareness and is used throughout all stages of the criminal process.

The GDI also contains additional, more in-depth tools:

• BE-Safer: domestic violence risk assessment
• Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Roadmap: step-by-step guidance for reporting
• SCIL: screening tool for intelligence or mild intellectual disabilities
• ASR Weighting Framework: used to assess whether adult or juvenile measures are recommended.

Victim Awareness & Restorative Justice

Victim awareness is a key part of probation work. Probation officers consider the safety and well-being of victims when advising the Judge, Prosecutor’s Office, or Parole Board. Officers encourage clients to take responsibility and help them understand the impact of their actions. They also guide clients in repairing harm and preventing reoffending.

In 2021, J&IS in collaboration with the Prosecutors Office carried out the Domestic Violence and Mediation Project, funded by R4CR. This project trained probation officers and staff members of partner organizations in restorative justice practices and conflict resolution between offenders and victims of any crime. It also introduces the execution of mediation in criminal cases on St. Maarten. Restorative Justice and Mediation in Criminal Cases focus on: • Reintegration of the offender • Victim participation, safety, and restoration • Community protection and prevention of future crimes
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A.J.C. Brouwers Road Nr. 4., Cul de Sac, Yogesh Commercial Complex Unit 2E/F/G, Cul-de-Sac, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten

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