NCJ Number
153372
Date Published
Unknown
Length
33 pages
Annotation
While the criminal justice system largely focuses on the offender, ignoring the needs and position of the victim, many agencies have initiated efforts to implement a model of restorative justice in which the victim is of paramount concern.
Abstract
The process of restorative justice attempts to heal the victim, using the offender as a vehicle whenever possible. The concept of restorative justice has its roots in ancient cultures and legal systems which in fact underlie Western society. Restorative justice defines crime as a conflict between persons, requires the participation of all parties, and empowers the victim to play a meaningful role in the outcome of a situation. Types of programs which are based on restorative justice include community dispute resolution centers, restitution, community service, and victim-offender mediation. Several studies have shown widespread public support for community service/restorative justice. Some elements of restorative justice which have been initiated in Delaware include community work service as a sentencing option for judges, passage of a restitution law and Sentencing Accountability Commission laws, family court victim-offender mediation program, and central collections unit. Preliminary evaluation research indicates that restorative justice may provide an effective alternative to incarceration. The report concludes with recommendations for enhancing restorative justice initiatives in Delaware. 20 notes