The first of 12 chapters presents statistics on the major components of the correctional system in America: probation, prisons, and parole. It notes the impossibility of managing the U.S. offender population without the effective operation of all three components. The functions of probation as well as parole are to manage offenders so as to protect the public from repeat offending while providing rehabilitation and reintegration resources that will reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Key issues addressed in the remainder of the text are the best methods for classifying offenders and for supervising them. The background, education, and training for various community corrections personnel are also examined, as well as the effectiveness of community corrections programs in protecting the public, and at what cost. A chapter on "Sentencing and Community Corrections" reviews contemporary sentencing practices, such as determinate sentencing, sentencing guidelines, and "three-strikes" laws. Various sentencing options are noted. Another chapter deals with "probation." Topics covered are the philosophical bases of probation, the objectives and advantages of probation, the presentence investigation report, probation conditions, alternative probation procedures, and probation revocation. A chapter on "Juveniles and Community Corrections" focuses on juveniles' legal rights and the various ways in which juveniles are processed and managed in the justice system, with attention to drug courts, probation, diversion, and aftercare. Other chapters address parole in America; the roles of probation and parole officers; strategies of classifying, managing, and serving offenders; intermediate sanctions; community residential correctional programs; special populations managed in community corrections; the effectiveness of community corrections; and the future of community corrections. Chapter review questions, an electronic library, key terms, recommended readings, notes, and references