Which report is prepared by a probation officer and contains information used by a judge in sentencing?

The Pre-Sentence Investigation (PSI) report is a critical document prepared by a probation officer that provides the court with a comprehensive overview of a defendant's background, the nature of the offense, and other relevant details that assist in the sentencing process. This report typically includes information about the defendant's personal history, criminal record, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances surrounding the case.

Judges rely heavily on the PSI when determining an appropriate sentence, as it offers insights into the individual's behavior and circumstances that may affect sentencing decisions. This report often includes recommendations for sentencing based on standard practices, statutes, and the specifics of the case, all tailored to provide a complete portrait of the defendant for informed judgment.

Other options, while related to the judicial process, do not specifically serve the same purpose as the PSI. A case summary might provide a brief overview of the case but lacks the in-depth analysis and recommendations found in a PSI. A judicial report could refer to various documents submitted to the court but is not specifically about sentencing information. Sentencing guidelines indicate framework and recommendations but do not contain the personalized information about the defendant that the PSI provides. Thus, the PSI stands out as the essential tool in guiding the judge during sentencing.