The Probation Officer

!t is they who have the final decision. The probation officer has a double duty, on the one hand to See that the Court's directions are carried out and on the other to l?ok after the interests of individuals. On the whole this divided Royalty causes no real difficulty. In most other fields?doctor and Patient, solicitor and client, social worker and "case"?where the relationship breaks down, one side or the other can withdraw and that is the end of the matter. Furthermore, except in the broadest sense, the worker is able to deal with the individual, whether he be patient, client or "case", very much in isolation without any more than an incidental reference to any other loyalties or obligations. If the relationship between probationer and probation officer breaks down it may lead to a breach of probation and possible punishment. The probationer may wish to withdraw from the relationship but he cannot, unless he refuses to obey the instructions of the probation officer or commits another offence. In either case it is the duty of the probation officer to report the matter and bring the probationer before the Court on summons or warrant to be dealt with in some