A Pretrial Services Officer will visit with you prior to your initial appearance and arraignment. They work for the court. Their job is to prepare a report for the judge recommending whether you should remain in custody or be released pending further proceedings. They will ask about your family, employment, health, and any substance abuse issues or treatment needs. It is okay to answer these questions, but do not lie. If you are uncomfortable with a question, you may choose not to answer. The officer will also look up and include in the report any prior arrests or convictions you may have. However, they should not ask you about those or about the events leading to your arrest and charge. Do not discuss anything about your pending case, what led to your arrest, or any other illegal activity with the Pretrial Services Officer. Anything you say to the probation officer can be used against you at trial or sentencing.
If you are released, the Pretrial Services Officer will also supervise you, ensuring you follow the rules put in place by the court (these are referred to as the terms and conditions of your release). They will provide updates to the court, as needed. If you do not follow the conditions of your release, you can go back to jail.