I am thinking about becoming a Probation Officer…?

Published February 13, 2011

Question by Heidi: I am thinking about becoming a Probation Officer…?
I’m in college now, sophomore year, and I am looking into Criminal Justice. I’ve always been very interested in drug/alcohol rehab, crimes, and almost anything else that has to do with criminal justice. I would be a police officer, but I would not do well with blood and guts so that’s out of the question. I have been looking into what I can do with a BA in CJ and I’ve found lots of careers and the one that stood out the most was Probation Officer. I’m very passionate about helping people, especially kids, so I figured why not Juvenile Probation Officer. I want to get some inside info from someone who is a PO. How do you like your job? Exactly what does it all entail? Is it emotionally draining, or is it rewarding? Or maybe both? What is your lifestyle like outside of work? Do you have time for your family and friends? Any other information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Heidi

Best answer:

Answer by Casey/Kelle
I’m not a PO but i have many friends who are.

They enjoy their job very much but the caseload is huge, which causes stress.
They are constantly covering their butt . If they don’t find the time to see someone weekly as ordered by the court , and that person gets in trouble, then the PO is in trouble.
Mush paperwork , pre sentence reports, visiting homes.

They go home at 6pm .

It can be discouraging when you work hard to help someone and they make another bad choice.

This is all true for any people job.

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