Restorative justice is not a new process. In fact, the origins can be traced back in many cultures for hundreds of years, and in some cases thousands. Since December 2014, it has been formally enshrined in law (Section 24A) in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Restorative justice helps put things right
A restorative justice conference is an informal, facilitated meeting between a victim, offender, support people and any other approved people, such as community representatives or interpreters. A trained facilitator will be at the conference to keep everyone safe and supported. They will also make sure the discussion stays on track.
For victims
At a restorative justice conference, victims will have the chance to:
tell the offender how the crime has affected you – physically, emotionally, mentally, financially, and in your daily life
help the offender to understand the harm they caused
tell the group how you think the harm could be put right by the offender
help stop others from becoming future victims of that offender’s crimes by helping the offender to take responsibility for what they did.
For offenders
At a restorative justice conference, offenders will have the chance to:
take responsibility for your offending
apologise to your victim
decide how to put right the harm you’ve caused
find ways to make sure you don't reoffend.
Restorative justice usually takes place before you are sentenced in court. The judge will consider any agreements made during the restorative justice conference at the time you are sentenced.
Talk to your lawyer if you want to know more about or take part in restorative justice, contact your Restorative Justice provider.
Principles of Restorative Justice
•Participation is VOLUNTARY throughout the restorative justice process
•The victim and the offender are the CENTRAL PARTICIPANTS in the restorative justice process
•UNDERSTANDING is key to effective participation
•Offender ACCOUNTABILITY is key to the restorative justice process
•Restorative justice processes are FLEXIBLE AND RESPONSIVE to the needs of participants
•Restorative justice processes are SAFE for participants
