Full Description
This user-friendly guide to effective writing for the justice system teaches readers to write cogently and accurately across the spectrum of criminal justice-related disciplines. With an examination of common writing problems that interfere with good reporting and documentation, the book's content underscores the importance of skilled written communication as a cornerstone of competent practice within criminology. It provides examples of strong writing that demonstrate communication of cultural competency and help students develop critical thinking/writing skills. Of outstanding value are numerous examples of real-world writing alongside discussion questions and explanations, enabling students to think critically and truly understand what constitutes good writing.
Actual forms and records used in practice are included along with real-world writing examples drawn from all areas of practice: police, corrections, probation and parole services, social work, miscellaneous court documents, and victim advocate services requiring all kinds of writing, including case notes, incident reports, op-ed essays, press releases, grant applications, and more. A robust Glossary of Writing and Writing Errors concludes the book.
Key Features:
Addresses the increasingly common issue of criminal justice students and professionals deficiencies in cultural competency and critical thinking as they relate to writing skills
Offers an interactive approach based on real practice and tied to criminal justice students and professionals interests
Includes examples of good and poor writing, with corrections and explanations for the bad examples
Displays actual forms and records used by law enforcement agencies, correctional departments, and related organizations
Fosters the development of critical and culturally competent writing skills
Contents
Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
Part I: Philosophy of Writing for Professional Practice
1. Why Write?
2. Critical Thinking for the Justice Professional
3. Cultural Competency for the Justice Professional
Part II: Professional Applications
4. Professional Writing for Law Enforcement
5. Professional Writing for the Courts
6. Professional Writing for Corrections Officers
7. Professional Writing for Probation and Parole
8. Grant Writing for the Justice Professional
9. Summary: Writing With the Mind and Body
Part III: Fundamentals of Effective Writing
10. Fundamentals of Effective Writing
11. Glossary of Writing and Writing Errors
Index
