Pretrial and Probation Accreditation in Florida

An accreditation program has long been recognized as a means of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. Schools, universities, and hospitals are some of the most well-known organizations that are required to maintain accreditation. Now, agencies with pretrial and probation responsibilities can now achieve accredited status through the Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission.

The Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission worked closely with the Association of Pretrial Professionals of Florida and the Florida Association of Community Corrections to develop professional standards for both pretrial and probation in Florida.
Pretrial accreditation standards were developed in 2008 based upon comprehensive research of Florida Statutes, the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, the American Bar Association’s Criminal Justice Standards for Pretrial Release, FCAC operating standards, and standards adopted by The National Association of Pretrial Services Agencies.

Probation accreditation standards were developed in 2016, expanding and enhancing the existing standards for pretrial agencies and creating new standards for misdemeanor probation.

Accreditation is seen as a means to increase judicial confidence in the use of pretrial release programs by providing standardized, accurate information for release/detention decisions. The probation community expressed an interest in being included in the accreditation process. Subsequently, standards have been developed to address the particular interests of probation agencies.

The standards are consistent with national best practices and will lead the way to establishing the most consistent and effective policy and procedures in Florida. Accreditation is the certification by an independent reviewing authority that an entity has met specific requirements and prescribed standards. Accreditation symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence.

A list of all accredited agencies can be found on the FCAC site.