What is Restorative Justice?
Restorative Justice is a response to crime, focused on repairing harm. It is a voluntary process, managed by a trained facilitator. Restorative justice is an opportunity for the victim, defendant and their support networks to meet in a safe environment. Read More
What are Restorative Practices?
Restorative Practices are guided by a set of values and principles which aim to foster strong relationships. The Restorative process is a way of building, maintaining and restoring relationships and is dependant upon a social climate that is reparative rather than punitive. Read More
How Does Restorative Justice Work in the Courts?
To be eligible for Restorative Justice, the defendant must first plead guilty. The judge decides whether the case should be considered for Restorative Justice, depending on factors such as the severity of the offence. The judge refers the case to their local provider. Before a conference, the facilitator meets separately with the defendant, victim and other parties attending the conference. The facilitator ensures that Restorative Justice is appropriate in the circumstances and prepares everyone for the conference.
What is a Restorative Justice Conference?
A conference is a safe space where all participants meet. During the conference, the facilitator assists the victim and offender to talk about the incident and the issues that have emerged. It is a chance for the victim to express how they have been affected by the offence. For the offender, it is a chance to accept responsibility for the harm that they have caused.
What can I expect from my Restorative Justice Conference?
A safe and secure environment to discuss the event and the aftermath. There will be a different experience depending upon if you are the offender or the victim. Optimally though, both sides emerge out of a Restorative Justice Conference with their mana restored. It is a chance for both sides to get their voice heard. All Restorative Justice Conferences are completely voluntary processes.
Why Restorative Justice?
The opportunity to be heard and valued can lead to positive outcomes for the participants. The aim of the Restorative Justice process is for the victim and offender to come to an agreement as to how to move forward. This can include a plan on how the defendant can put things right. A post-conference report is given to the judge to take into account when sentencing.
How do I contact my Local Provider Group?
You can locate your local Provider group in the Directory
Where do I find out about Trainings?
Training will be put on our events page, and generally emailed out to all of our members. To express interest in training or if you have a particular request for training then Contact Us.
How do I become a Facilitator?
Facilitator introductory training is generally performed by Resolution Institute. We recommend that you get in touch with a Local Provider first to assist in supporting you through this pathway.
How do I become an Accredited Provider?
All provider accreditation comes through the Ministry of Justice.