restorative justice processes
In our current criminal justice approach recidivism is high and rehabilitation is low. Restorative Justice used as a diversion program saves the Juvenile Justice Department time and money - while it reduces the number that reoffend and is immediately rehabilitative.
Restorative Justice gives an opportunity for those who have been impacted by a harm to be a part of a facilitated dialogue using a restorative process to express how it has impacted their lives and the community. Those involved will create collaborative terms that are equitable for all, in an atmosphere that is confidential, and all participants are acknowledged through a restorative lens.
Restorative Dialogue can be used for:
Disorderly Conduct, Arson, Bullying, Truancy, Vandalism, Trespassing, Fighting, Assault, and Theft.
Who is involved:
Victims (survivor) express the pain, fear, anger, and loss as the result of the offense. They may have an opportunity to hear the offender’s acceptance of responsibility, an apology, and willingness to repair the harm. A support person will be invited to attend.
Offender(s) face the individual(s) that were harmed, take responsibility for their actions and make amends. He/she has the opportunity to put this offense behind them and learn from this experience to make better choices in the future. Parent/guardian is required to attend to support, build understanding with the hope that family relationships can begin to heal.
Community restored and becomes a safer place for everyone. The community members may feel a sense of responsibility for both the offender and the victim. There may be a shared sense that justice has been done - coming together as community. This is a volunteer opportunity
Success is measured not by how much punishment is given, but by how much harm has been repaired or prevented.
Family Group Conferences can be used for:
- Shoplifting
- Drug Possession
- Misbehavior
- Tech Dependency
- Truancy
As with the Restorative Dialogues , stories of impact are shared and agreements are made. Additionally:
- These groups can include multiple incidents/families.
- Facts and information specific to the impacts of shoplifting, drug possession, misbehavior, tech dependency or truancy are taught.
- When possible, spokespeople from the community of impact will be present and reveal first hand the consequences of a youth’s choices.
- Parents/guardians have the opportunity to learn skills that increase empathy, understanding and steps that solve problems while building a relationship with their family.
"Our district and the surrounding community has benefitted from Tamara's outreach and leadership in bringing families and schools together to talk about student attendance. I have been a part of her Family Group Conferences and walked away thoroughly impressed and excited about the content."
C. Ron Mangum, Dean of Students