ABOUT US

Empowering Justice, A Constant Commitment To Client Success

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Squared Away  Consulting was founded by Michelle T. Ries, a criminal justice professional with over 25 years of experience. As a founding member of the nationally recognized CASA (Conviction And Sentencing Alternative) Program in Los Angeles, Michelle brings expertise in alternative sentencing, collaborative justice, and community reintegration. Squared Away Consulting, LLC was launched to provide continued support and individualized solutions for persons under supervision. 

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At Squared Away Consulting, LLC, we are committed to transforming the criminal justice system through innovative solutions, strategic insights, and practical, community-driven reforms. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of the complexities of the justice system, informed by years of experience working within the field. We collaborate with governments, nonprofits, legal professionals, and organizations to help build a more just and equitable society.

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Founded by professionals with extensive backgrounds in federal probation and pretrial services, Squared Away Consulting brings a wealth of knowledge to every client engagement. We specialize in alternatives to incarceration, cognitive behavioral treatment, risk assessment strategies, and training and educational programs designed to enhance the effectiveness of legal professionals and justice system stakeholders.

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Our Mission

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Our mission is to support the development and implementation of fair and effective criminal justice practices that reduce recidivism, promote rehabilitation, and address the root causes of criminal behavior. Through consulting, training, and policy development, we aim to empower organizations and individuals working within the criminal justice system to create lasting, positive change.

Our Expertise in Justice

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We envision a future where justice is rehabilitative, restorative, and inclusive—where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has an equal opportunity to succeed in society. By working collaboratively with our clients, we strive to drive meaningful reform that enhances public safety, improves legal outcomes, and supports the reintegration of justice-involved individuals into their communities. 

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With over 25 years of experience in federal probation and pretrial services, Squared Away Consulting brings unmatched expertise in the inner workings of the criminal justice system at both the state and federal levels. Our founder, a former United States Probation and Pretrial Services Officer in the Central District of California, played a key role in launching the nationally recognized CASA (Conviction and Sentence Alternatives) program. This firsthand leadership in developing alternatives to incarceration gives us unique insight into what truly works to reduce recidivism, promote rehabilitation, and support long-term reintegration.

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Our team has worked closely with some of the most vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, seniors, and those with mental or physical disabilities. We understand the barriers these individuals face and design solutions that are not only effective but also human-centered and inclusive. By combining deep policy knowledge with on-the-ground experience, we offer practical strategies that help legal professionals, courts, and communities achieve better outcomes and lasting impact.

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