Pretrial Investigations

Purpose

To enhance public safety and court appearance by assisting judicial officers in making objectives, risk-based decision regarding pretrial release and ensuring compliance with conditions of bail.

Interviewing, Risk Assessments and Recommendations

Pretrial officers conduct screenings and interviews at the Richmond City Justice Center. They review commitment orders for defendants admitted to jail and awaiting first court appearance to determine their eligibility for pretrial investigation. Upon completion of the screening process, a pretrial officer meets with the defendant face-to-face or via video to gather background information for the purpose of assessing suitability for and risk of release.

A standardized, objective, research-based assessment is conducted on each defendant meeting the criteria for investigation. This assessment identifies the likelihood of failure to appear in court and the danger to the community posed by a defendant pending trial.

The results of the risk assessment, along with other supporting factors, are provided to judicial officers and attorneys as part of the complete pretrial investigation report to assist them in making bail determination decisions. Suggested recommendations by the pretrial officer include continued detention, personal recognizance bond, and pretrial supervision.

For more information on pretrial investigations, please call 804-646-8955.