The purpose of a Pre-Sentence Report is to provide information to the sentencing court about the offender and the offence which has been committed. It also helps the court decide on a suitable sentence by making recommendations. The production of a PSR involves interviewing the offender, reading court papers and an assessment of likelihood of reconviction and risk.

Types of Reports:

The framework for reports, established by the National Probation Directorate in consultation with sentencers, is intended to ensure that the Courts have a full picture on the cases that need it, including the more dangerous and prolific offenders. This procedure avoids unnecessarily involved (and lengthy) assessment in relatively straight forward cases.

Fast Delivery Reports:

Normally delivered on the day - but may be adjourned to the next court sitting if it is not possible to produce on the same day. Fast Reportds are for low and medium seriousness cases, but are not be appropriate where factors such as mental health concerns, child protection or domestic violence issues are present, or there are other serious offences of a sexual, violent or racially aggravated nature.

Standard Pre-Sentence Reports (PSR):

For completion on adjournment, based on a full assessment. Standard delivery PSR's are required for assessments for most programme requirements; for all treatment requirements and where the offender has been designated as a Prolific or Priority Offender.