Restorative Practices

Restorative Justice (RJ) is a form of restorative practice and a problem-solving approach that focuses on relationships and building community. It is an approach to justice that focuses on the needs of the victims and the offenders, as well as the involved community, instead of satisfying abstract principles or punishing the offender. Restorative practices counter “no tolerance” policies, especially for more minor offenses. Victims take an active role in the process, while offenders are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, to repair the harm they’ve done—by apologizing, returning what was lost, or through community service. Restorative practices provide real justice for victims and helps offenders to avoid future offences. Safe dialogue between victims and offenders shows the highest rates of victim satisfaction and offender accountability.