Engaging offenders in the supervision process can be a daunting task. In many instances bringing in other parties who have a vested interest in a person's success can assist the engagement of offenders. These vested parties are sometimes collateral contacts. Collateral contacts can range from friends to family members to individuals who live in the neighborhood. They are people who can be contacted with regards to an offender.

Collateral contacts are a part of an agent's day-to-day life. There are many times when someone will not be at home when they say will and an agent must make contact with someone. This is just one of many instances where agents may encounter collateral contacts. The reason collateral contacts are important is simple, they can be used as an ally in the community. The offender can use them as an ally and so can the agent. The offenders will have someone out there who is vested in their success and consequently they are likely to help that offender. When someone is isolated and they have no one to turn to there is a greater chance for failure.