"There is a need for more discussion of the constructive work that practitioners continue to do to support the desistance of ex-offenders despite the present context of punitive populism and risk aversion. This collection of papers on multi-agency work helps to fill that gap." Ros Burnett, Centre for Criminology, University of Oxford<BR><BR>"The wide-ranging chapters provide in-depth reviews and important insights into multi-agency work across the criminal justice system, acknowledging the challenges and tensions inherent in recent developments. This is a valuable resource for academics and students, and key reading for policy makers, managers and practitioners." Jill Annison, Senior Lecturer in Criminal Justice, Plymouth Law School, University of Plymouth<BR><BR>This textbook brings together for the first time theory, policy and skills relevant to working in a multi-agency setting within the criminal justice system. It comes at an important time as the professional qualifying arrangements for probation officers are changing, alongside the development of a mixed economy of correctional practice. The book outlines the legislative and policy framework in the criminal justice system, and evaluates professional and organisational conflicts within multi-agency contexts as well as highlighting key offender groups, and issues associated with desistance from crime. It is essential reading for all students and practitioners involved in or studying correctional work, through the Probation or Prison Services, or other agencies.