Community service is a big part of sentencing, however, those who work in the courts are finding a shortage of placements for those navigating the legal system.
Service to the community has become an integral part of the legal system. Often included as a part of sentencing is for the offender to work within the community. There is also a need for placements for programs such as alternative measures, where a person facing minor legal issues can complete a program and not have a criminal record, or extrajudicial sanctions, a similar program for youth.
Defense lawyer Colin Kloot has seen where clients are given the opportunity to make a difference in their community and also possibly clear up legal issues, however the are having problems finding a place to work.
These placements can be with any charitable organization that is able to provide a supervisor. This could be churches, museums or other organizations. The work is completed with no payment to the individual.
Probation officer Kristi Donison sees community service opportunities as an important part of the process.
“They want to give back,” said Donison. “The more involved in the community, the less likely they are to reoffend, in my experience.”
For information on the program, contact Donison at 403-823-1664 or email kristi.donison@gov.ab.ca.
