Theory Of Restorative Justice

The concept of restorative justice centers on a mutual understanding between the offender and community in regards to the offender's previous criminal acts. This theory focuses on repairing harm the offender inflicted on the community in a non-retributive manner. With the assistance of the community, victims and the cooperation of the offender, this theory points the ability to repair the criminal in a non-traditional means. The traditional mindset being of the community or society seeing an offender as a lost cause and for a “lock them up and throw away the key” mentality. Instead, offenders should still be accountable for their actions, however, the community and victims come together in an informal means of justice to heal the criminal. For restorative justice to be successful, the offender must accept both monetary restitution and be willing to apologize. In addition, the offender must accept responsibility for his actions, as well value their
Impact panels provide victims with the ability to face offenders guilty of crimes similar to that the victims had been subjected to. This provides victims the opportunity to explain to criminals the harm their actions have on victims. The goal of such a program is to give victims the platform to voice their experiences in being victimized and educate offenders. Another program used is family group conferences. In contrast to victim impact panels, the family group conference does place the victim and the victim’s offender in the same room, along with families from both sides. Offenders are granted the opportunity to explain their actions to their victim. Additionally, the victim is given the same opportunity to speak and explain the harm the offender has caused them. The outcome of such a meeting results in the victim and offender coming to a mutual agreement, an apology, and some form of restitution to be paid to the victim and their