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What is Restorative Justice?
Restorative Justice is a process which works to:
- Repair the damage done by criminal or anti-social acts.
- Give victims of crime a voice and a better deal.
- Encourage offenders to take responsibility for their actions and their impact on others.
- Assist in finding more practical and helpful solutions to the harm caused by the crime.
- Foster community involvement and participation in community group conferences.
- Promote the making of amends, showing compassion, healing and forgiveness.
Have you ...
- been a victim of crime, or are a relative or a friend of a victim?
- committed a crime, or are a relative or friend of an offender?
If so, do you want ...
- Answers to why you were victimised?
- To give or receive an apology?
- To talk things through with the other party?
- To work out a way to repair the harm or damage done?
- To be able to give or receive support in solving the situation?
We can help by ...
- Contacting both parties to see if they wish to meet.
- Arranging and facilitating such a meeting in a safe and neutral place.
- Helping people arrange their own support systems.
- Creating an environment in which all matters are considered, solutions are explored, and an agreement can be reached.
- Assisting with follow-up arrangements as necessary.
When can Restorative Justice commence?
- After conviction or sentencing.
- Prior to release from a correctional centre.
- During Probation.
- During Parole.
It is important that all those taking part are ...
- Willing to be involved.
- Fully informed about the process.
- Supported before, during and after the meeting if necessary.
- Able to say honestly what they think and feel throughout the process.
What can you do?
- Ask victim support services.
- Ask Restorative Justice Unit workers.
- Ask a Probation and Parole Officer.
