Restorative justice is an important step in the journey your client can make. Whilst it can be tempting to use the process as a tool, the outcomes that can be achieved through authentic and honest engagement, not only lead to positive outcomes for the victim, but positive outcomes for your client.
When can Restorative Justice be initiated
There are three access points to restorative justice, two of which occur in the legal arena. Pre-sentencing, and post-sentencing.
You and your client should have a discussion early on about what restorative justice is, and if it is appropriate.
Regardless of the point in sentencing, early conversation with the provider can lead to raising the possibility with the judge.
For pre-sentence cases, you can ask the judge if restorative justice can be used. They will send a referral they decide it is appropriate. You can contact the provider in the court hearing the case. By then selecting "Apply with this provider" it will open a webform, and you will be able to provide enough detail for the provider to be aware of the case.
For post-sentence restorative justice, an enquiry to the provider can act as the initiator for a referral. However, this is at the discretion of the corrections service, who will fund the process if approved.
Research has found that participants in restorative justice are 62% less likely to reoffend.
