The law reflects the widespread views and governmental policy designed to reduce the levels of custodial sentencing for offenders under age 21. It applies both to these youthful offenders and to adult offenders aged 21 and over. It prevents incarceration unless the court believes that the offense was so serious that incarceration is the only justifiable sentence or, for a violent or sex offense, that incarceration is required to protect the public. These provisions replace current criteria under 1982 and 1988 legislation which permitted custody on grounds relating to the offender's inability or unwillingness to respond to noncustodial penalties. Under the new law, writers of presentence reports must carefully examine the details of the current offense. In addition, an interagency approach will continue to be important. Tables