Pretrial Services (PTS) Bureau role is to decrease the number of days spent by incarcerated defendants, who could be safely released into the community while awaiting court appearances thus allowing a non-financial release option for indigent defendants, and to provide administrative, informational and research services to criminal justice agencies, defendants and the community.

The bureau has the responsibility of providing defendant profiles to the judiciary at first appearance hearings and/or subsequent circuit court hearings. This information includes various release conditions and options which will help to ensure court appearance and the safety of the community. Supervision levels vary based on the severity of the defendant’s charges, previous criminal history, and ties to the community.

The bureau plays a critical role in monitoring released pretrial arrestees to ensure compliance with release conditions imposed by the judge for the benefit of public safety. PTS maintains a list of referral agencies and establish contacts with those agencies to facilitate the placement of defendants in need of social services and lastly, evaluates first time offenders for inclusion into the diversion programs.

Financial benefits of pretrial release positively impact the community and the detainee’s family. The released offender is able to find or maintain employment, is in a better position to pay fines if convicted, and persuade the court to grant probation on the basis of continued employment.