Legal and Evidence-Based Practices: Application [...] to the Field of Pretrial Services (2007)

Abstract

There are numerous critical points and stages along the criminal case process continuum. The law governs the application of distinct legal principles at varying stages along this continuum. The period of time between arrest and case adjudication is known as the pretrial stage. During this stage defendants enjoy certain inalienable rights as found in the law. As a result, there are critical legal principles applicable to defendants during the pretrial stage. These principles, as applied to specific pretrial practices, serve as the legal foundation on which pretrial services programs must operate. A clear grasp of these legal tenets is necessary to build a framework for appropriate delivery of pretrial services.