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Overview of Probation Procedures for Juveniles and Adults in Albania

The Albanian Probation Service plays an important role in the implementation of alternative sanctions and measures for both juveniles and adults. Through supervision, assessment, and rehabilitation-oriented interventions, the Service aims to support compliance with court decisions, reduce the risk of reoffending, and promote the successful reintegration of individuals into society.

Procedures for Juveniles

For juveniles, the Probation Service is responsible for implementing several alternative measures to detention, including suspension of imprisonment with probation supervision, community service, house confinement, conditional release, and restriction of liberty. The Service also contributes to monitoring diversion measures and compulsory measures in cooperation with relevant institutions.

The most commonly applied measure for juveniles is the suspension of imprisonment combined with probation supervision. The work of probation officers is based on the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model, with a focus on identifying and addressing individual criminogenic needs while supporting the young person’s development and social inclusion.

The supervision process begins with an initial meeting involving the juvenile and their legal guardian. During this meeting, the probation officer gathers information regarding the juvenile’s personal history, family situation, education, behaviour, and other factors relevant to rehabilitation. A risk assessment is then conducted using the YRNAS tool, which serves as the basis for developing an Individual Treatment Plan together with the juvenile and guardian.

The Treatment Plan defines the objectives of supervision, the frequency of meetings, and the interventions required to address identified needs. Depending on the individual case, the Probation Service cooperates with schools, Child Protection Units, vocational training providers, non-profit organisations, and the State Police to support education, vocational development, and compliance with court-imposed obligations.

In cases of community service, placements are selected carefully to ensure that the measure contributes to rehabilitation while avoiding stigma or negative labeling. House confinement is monitored through visits to the juvenile’s residence, while conditional release focuses on supporting reintegration and continued compliance with court requirements.

Procedures for Adults

For adults, the most frequently applied alternative measure is the suspension of imprisonment with probation supervision. The Probation Service is responsible for monitoring compliance with court conditions while providing support aimed at reducing reoffending risks.

The process begins with an initial interview covering relevant areas such as the nature of the offence, personal background, family and economic circumstances, health, and other factors affecting rehabilitation. Based on this information, a risk assessment is completed using the SVR assessment instrument.

Following the assessment, the probation officer and the individual develop an Individual Treatment Plan, which establishes the objectives of supervision, meeting frequency, and interventions required during the probation period.

Where additional court obligations are imposed, such as restrictions related to movement, associations, or certain activities, the Probation Service cooperates with relevant authorities, including the State Police, to monitor compliance. In cases of repeated non-compliance, the matter is reported to the prosecutor for further action.

The same principles apply to other alternative sanctions, including community service, house arrest, and semi-liberty, with procedures adapted according to the specific requirements of each measure.

Download the Full Procedure

This article provides a brief overview of probation procedures for juveniles and adults in Albania. For a detailed description of the legal framework, assessment processes, supervision methods, and implementation of alternative sanctions, please download the full document.

📄 Download: Probation Procedures for Juveniles and Adults in Albania (PDF)

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Probation Journal

juvenile offenders, Probation in Europe

Overview of Probation Procedures for Juveniles and Adults in Albania

22/07/2026

The Albanian Probation Service plays an important role in the implementation of alternative sanctions and measures for both juveniles and adults. Through supervision, assessment, and rehabilitation-oriented interventions, the Service aims to support compliance with court decisions, reduce the risk of reoffending, and promote the successful reintegration of individuals into society.

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