Professional Case Note Documentation Training for Probation Staff

The San Mateo County Probation Department (the “Department”) is responsible for the supervision of approximately 2,500 adult and juvenile probationers. Probation represents the link between the application of appropriate consequences for illegal and delinquent behavior and the establishment of offenders transitioning to productive, law-abiding lives. This specialized criminal justice role of probation is a successful and cost-effective balance of both enforcement and treatment. Deputy Probation Officers (DPOs) are responsible for monitoring probationers in the community by enforcing court-ordered restrictions and providing access to rehabilitation programs as well as promoting victim safety and restoration.

The Department’s primary purpose of enhancing public safety is achieved in three specialized ways: 1) investigating major elements of crimes/offenses, the impact upon victims, the criminal/offense histories and behavior of adults and juveniles, plus possible sentencing alternatives and providing this information to the Superior Court in the form of accurate and impartial reports and recommendations; 2) monitoring and supervising those placed on probation to ensure that court-ordered “conditions of probation” are obeyed and public safety is maintained; and 3) providing opportunities for probationers to receive treatment, resources, and services that will prevent future criminal/delinquent activities.

The Department's Professional Standards Unit coordinates and conducts mandated training for sworn officers as well as administrative professionals. The Department seeks responses to the Request for Proposals from qualified firms or individual consultants to develop and deliver a comprehensive training program on effective and compliant case note documentation.

The primary goal is to standardize the quality, legal defensibility, and accuracy of case notes across the department. The Department is looking for state-certified trainers who can bridge the gap between the "field observations" and "court-ready documentation."