The concepts presented are based on experiences with operational programs developed over the past 15 years. The report summarizes the crucial components of these programs, the optional services they can provide, and performance measures for determining effectiveness. The discussion notes that a good pretrial program includes an effective drug testing program. It also points out that these programs are designed to improve the release/detention decision process in criminal courts by providing complete, accurate, nonadversarial information to judicial officers; identify those for whom alternative forms of supervision may be more appropriate than incarceration; and monitor released pretrial arrestees to ensure compliance with conditions of release imposed by the judicial officer for the benefit of public safety. The central elements of a program can be grouped into three categories: (1) procedures used before and during the defendant's initial court appearance, (2) procedures used following the initial court appearance to monitor defendants and aid them in making their court appearances, and (3) management and data collection procedures that permit a program to examine the effectiveness of its practices. List of sources of further information and assistance and appended pretrial services standards