Conducting an effective presentence investigation requires a handful of steps, all of which are just as important as the other. As a defendant, this process is absolutely invaluable to your cause, but seeing as it is usually carried out by a qualified attorney, it may be hard to keep up with what's going on.

The steps below highlight a few key steps in carrying out presentence investigations so that you're able to understand the process better and keep yourself in the loop.

1. Preparation

The preparation stage ensures that every crucial aspect of the plan is mapped out and all relevant information about the defendant, including the present charge and criminal history, is available. 

2. Interviews 

Interviews are an essential part of any presentence investigation, and they usually come just after the preparation stage is complete. Interviews are conducted not only with the defendant but also with their family members, friends, co-workers, and any individual or party that is deemed relevant to the investigation.

3. Records & Documentation

The next step is to review records and documentation that pertains to the defendants. These documents usually include financial records, court records, and pretty much any other relevant documents that you can get your hands on. 

4. Risks & Needs

Assessing risks and needs is a process wherein those carrying out the investigation try to ascertain various risk factors pertaining to the defendant. This includes the risk of committing the offense again, mental health issues, substance abuse, or addiction, among others 

5. Collaboration

It is also often common in a presentence investigation that collaboration occurs between those carrying out the investigation and other relevant parties and agencies such as probation departments, social service organizations, and mental health clinics. These organizations may provide valuable information and support during the process.

6. Sentencing Alternatives 

One of the aims of presentence investigation is to consider valid alternatives to prison sentencing. These alternatives often include community service or probation. In cases where they're appropriate, the judge may also consider treatment programs. It is a goal of most presentence investigations to determine and prove the feasibility of these alternatives.

7. Report

Lastly, after all the above steps are complete, a comprehensive report must be submitted, which contains all the findings from the investigation. It goes without saying that the report must be robust and well-organized to give the defendant the best chance.

For a more comprehensive guide on the subject, feel free to check out this website.