Lately there has been a significant increase in attention towards restorative justice as a unique option for dealing with criminal behavior. Instead of solely fixating on punishment, restorative justice places emphasis on repairing the harm caused by crimes and rebuilding relationships among offenders, victims, and communities (Griffiths & Murdoch, 2018). The Canadian criminal justice system currently operates under retributive ideals, prioritizing punishing wrongdoers for their actions rather than prioritizing restitution and rehabilitation. In contrast to the current system, restorative justice aims to tackle the immediate consequences of crime and more importantly, its underlying causes. At its core, restorative justice tries to rectify the harm inflicted upon victims …show more content…
Restorative justice recognizes that crimes extend beyond the legal system; disturbing social harmony, fracturing relationships, and instilling fear within communities. However, it is important to note that although restorative practices show promise in fostering better overall outcomes within our judicial systems, such as reducing rates of repeat offenses (recidivism) and empowering victims, certain crimes may present unique challenges.
With its aim to rectify harm and rebuild connections by placing a strong emphasis on healing, accountability, and community involvement, the concept of restorative justice could fundamentally transform our understanding of crime and its consequences. Unlike the traditional system that primarily seeks to penalize wrongdoers, restorative justice prioritizes repair through understanding, empathy and reconciliation among victims. A large part of reparation involves restoring relationships. In many cases, victims are often marginalized or left out while legal procedures and holding offenders accountable take precedence. However, restorative practices such as circle sentencing, allows victims to be actively involved in