July 1st is here. Most new and updated legislation takes effect on this date in New Hampshire. Do you know what your law makers have been up to?
It’s nice to have a proactive legal department that is constantly watching for changes that affect probation and parole practice, but it’s a big mistake to depend on anyone other than you. I speak from bitter experience.
I relied on my department to inform me via the chain of command should any changes in the law affect how I did my job. That was a huge mistake!
Having appeared for a hearing on an annulment, I found out in open court the criteria had changed and my objection to the annulment was overruled. My credibility took a hit.
NHComCor posted information on pending legislation information, and the lack of “hits” on this information proved to me that it wasn’t something that attracted any interest. That’s a shame, because what you don’t know can be harmful in this occupation.
My state does not require CEU’s every year to maintain a certification as a probation/parole officer. NH officers have to police themselves in many respects and this is one area that should not be neglected.
The research is easy, but time consuming. In New Hampshire, simply go to the state web page, click on the Legislative Branch under State Government, and start searching the bills. If you do this on your own time, you can send copies to your office email address for further review. And be kind enough to spread the word to your co-workers when you find something pertinent.
Go ahead and complain about not having time to do this in the office, and how unfair it is to have to do this on your own time. Let your chief know how abused you are!
When you are finished wasting time and energy, try to understand your reputation and professional standing within the criminal justice system is at stake. A good reputation is the factor that creates a good outcome in court or parole board hearings.
Do this on a regular basis, year to year, and you will realize that your have expertise that can be of use to the legislative branch. Build your reputation and become an expert in your field. Follow the debate as bills work through the system. Instead of muttering to your co-workers about the “none too bright” legislative action, speak to the lawmakers themselves on a yearly basis. Don’t be surprised if your information starts to show up in the debate and influences people.
It is your life and your career, shouldn’t you have a voice?
