Restorative Justice Essay

1000 Words4 Pages

. What is Restorative Justice?

Restorative justice is a form of justice that focuses on repairing harm caused by criminal behavior, rather than simply punishing the offender. It involves bringing together the victim, offender, and other affected parties in a safe and facilitated dialogue to discuss the harm that was done, how it can be repaired, and how everyone involved can move forward.

. How does a Restorative Justice work?

Restorative justice works by giving a voice to those affected by crime in a way that traditional criminal justice processes do not. It allows for open and honest communication between all parties involved, which can lead to a greater understanding of the harm caused and how to repair it. Restorative justice also seeks …show more content…

Community conferencing is a facilitated process that encourages participants to take responsibility for their actions, share their perspectives, and collaborate on developing a plan to make things right. Community conferencing is often used as an alternative to traditional punitive measures within the criminal justice system. Instead of formal legal proceedings, community conferencing provides a space for dialogue and repair that allows participants to work together to address the underlying causes of the harm that has been caused. By involving the community in the process, community conferencing also seeks to build stronger, more resilient communities by fostering open communication and mutual support. In addition to its use in the criminal justice system, community conferencing is also used in schools, workplaces, and other settings as a way to address conflicts and build community. By bringing together those affected by an incident and facilitating an open dialogue, community conferencing offers a way to promote healing, empower those involved, and build stronger, more connected …show more content…

For example, a victim may choose to write a letter expressing their feelings and the harm caused by the offender, and the facilitator or mediator would then deliver the letter to the offender. Through this process, the offender can gain an understanding of the harm they caused and take responsibility for their actions. Indirect communication can provide the parties with a safe and controlled environment while still enabling them to communicate their thoughts and feelings. It can also assist in preventing any escalation or re-victimization of the victim, while allowing the offender to express remorse and take responsibility for their actions. While indirect communication may not be suitable for all cases, it can be a valuable form of restorative justice that provides an alternative to a face-to-face meeting between the victim and offender. The use of indirect communication in restorative justice can promote healing for both the victim and the offender, and encourage accountability and