Restorative Justice

Restorative Justice seeks to provide a framework or lens for thinking about crime and justice.  It is grounded in the dignity of the human person and focuses on relationships and needs considering the victim, the community and the offender.  It encourages outcomes that promote responsibility, reparation and healing for all.
 
Victims, who are often ignored or sometimes harmed even further in the traditional justice system, are given voice and support.  The effects of the crime can be expressed, their questions answered and their needs addressed in many ways.  Offenders are provided opportunities for a change of heart so that they may recognize the harm they have done, learn ways of behaving differently and become empathetic.  When they understand and accept responsibility, they then undertake actions to repair the harm to the victim in particular and the greater community as well, to the extent possible.
 
The important work of the police and court system is complemented by restorative justice.  It expands the process to be more than an abstract and impersonal process answerable only to the state.  Active participation by the victim, the offender and the community moves forward to reweave the fabric of peace, to realize shalom.  In Christian terms, restorative justice is a means of proclaiming the Kingdom of God.

HOW IS RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PRACTICED?

• Victim/offender dialogue is available through departments within the justice system for victims who wish to participate. Faith communities, professional agencies, and community volunteers also provide support and assistance to the families of offenders.
• Businesses and community organizations work with offenders to reintegrate them into the community while offenders fulfill their obligations of restitution to the victim and the community.
• Faith communities sponsor support groups for offenders trying to change negative life patterns. Offenders leave prison with better life skills due to programs which engage them in victim/offender mediation, family group conferences, victim panels and community panels.
• Offenders engage in community service projects which benefit the community. The community provides work opportunities so that offenders are able to make restitution to the victims of their crimes.

www.ljp.archdpdx.org
http://rjoregon.org
www.restorativejustice.org
www.curenational.org
www.goodbooks.com