What are the Benefits of Restorative Justice?
The benefits of Restorative Justice Processes Include:
Opportunities for persons who have been harmed by an offense:
- To be heard and to have your questions answered
- To gain a mutual understanding of the event that occurred
- To determine your own plan on how to address your specific needs in relation to the harm you have experienced
- To exchange information through a facilitator and explore different forms of reparation, such as restitution, a written/verbal apology, community services/projects face-to-face meetings or video messages with the person who has caused you harm
- To heal from the harm that you have experienced so that you may move forward in a more positive way
Opportunities for persons who have committed an offense:
- To understand how the offence committed has impacted the victim(s) and other community members
- To develop an understanding of the causes and consequences of your behavior
- To make amends with the victims directly and explore ways to take responsibility for. your actions in a meaningful way
- To be accountable and reconnect with your community in a healthier way
Opportunities for the community:
- To enhance public safety and well-being
- To provide a safe space for all the parties impacted by a crime so they can dialogue and have a choice on how the harm that has been caused can be addressed and repaired
- To partner with the justice system and reduce court costs
- To transform the traditional relationship between communities and their governments in responding to crime