Advocacy of Client - Essay Example

Client advocacy refers to offering protection of the client’s rights and interests as a citizen. In this scenario, the client in need of advocacy is Steve, who may be in the wrong and disadvantaged but is in need of a representative to stand and speak on his behalf. Advocacy aims at getting the defendant control of the process and determining the outcomes of his actions. In this case, Steve needs advocacy to help him attain substantial control of the judgment towards his actions of being in possession of an illegal substance, marijuana. In addition, advocacy service not only brings forth a representation of the victim but also offers pieces of advice to the victim as a way of assisting him to help himself (Kirst-Ashman and Hull, 2011).

People require advocacy services for various reasons, and in this case, Steve is in dire need of the same for more than one reason. One, he is in the wrong and needs advice on the situation, and not to mention he is a minor. Hence, most likely he does not possess a vast background or knowledge about his rights. Indeed, advocates serve more than just being representatives they also act as negotiators. They act on behalf of the defendants to strike a suitable resolution of the matter. For example, in Steve’s case, the advocates may bargain on his behalf and strike a better deal for the consequences to face for possessing an illegal substance. In this case, it seems that releasing him to a pretrial diversion program is the best decision on the table, as he will not face incarceration. Instead, he will be on probation and assigned to community service to engage and accomplish within a specified time.

As a probation officer and with advocacy in place, it is advisable for the officer to make a follow-up of the offender’s history (Menon and Banerjea, 2003). In this case, the officer should thoroughly scrutinize Steve’s past and the exposure he has had as he grew up. This is important as from the scenario it is understandable to link Steve’s current situation to his past. Looking at his past, he has had an exposure with a family struggling to stay on his feet to no avail. In addition, the mother was a drug addict, an ignorant individual, and a prostitute. On the other hand, the father does not also care about the welfare of his son as portrayed by his ignorant actions when Steve misses school and does not bother to find out how his son’s studies are progressing. In turn, the school takes action against him. Thus, it is crystal clear that Steve’s actions are catapulted by the parents’ deeds.

In turn, as a way of helping a young person reform, the probation officer should also take time to find out if Steve is undergoing any psychological struggles that may encourage him to seek solace in drugs. On top of that, the officer may keep the advocates in the loop of the events unfolding in Steve’s life as he is under probation. This will be a guarantee to keep Steve’s rights as a citizen intact, without any violation. Additionally, the probation officer will keep an eye on Steve whilst he is on probation to complete his assigned duties in the community. Consequently, this will assure Steve’s reformation runs mellow.