When must a social investigation report be delivered to the parties involved?

A social investigation report is a crucial document that informs the court about a defendant's background, circumstances, and potential for rehabilitation, which affects sentencing decisions. The requirement to deliver this report at least three days prior to the sentencing hearing is in place to ensure that all parties involved—defense, prosecution, and the court—have adequate time to review the information presented in the report. This timeframe allows for necessary discussions, considerations of the findings, and preparation for any responses or additional arguments that may need to be presented at the sentencing hearing. By establishing this period, the legal system promotes fairness and transparency, ensuring that decisions are made based on a thorough understanding of the defendant's situation and history.

The other options do not align with the procedural timelines established by legal standards. Immediate delivery after the trial or at the time of arrest wouldn’t provide sufficient time for review and deliberation, while delivering it one week before the adjustment process does not specifically relate to the sentencing hearing context, which is where the report is most relevant.