What is Restorative Justice?

Core Principles

Restorative Justice (RJ) is a philosophy and a set of practices.
RJ is Community-based. Every community has a unique program underpinned by shared values.
RJ sees conflict and/or crime as harm done to people, relationships and the community, not the state.
It focuses on accountability and repairing the harm done, instead of on retribution or punishment.
RJ strives to provide safe and supportive opportunities for communication.
RJ empowers those directly affected by the conflict or crime to make decisions about the response.
RJ addresses root causes and explores what may be needed to change harmful behaviours.

Who Does It Serve?

Restorative Justice referrals can come from a number of sources including RCMP, Crown Counsel, Schools, judges, community organizations, probation officers, individuals, and more!

The process is designed to serve all participants, whether they are responsible for causing harm or have been affected by harm.

What are the benefits?

For people who have been harmed

empowerment/regain lost control
healing or closure
trauma-informed

For people who have caused harm

the opportunity to apologize
reintegration into community
insight about the impact of their actions
a chance to do better in the future

For all involved

builds communication skills
a chance to be heard
a safe space
a collaborative, not adversarial approach
ownership over the outcome
support from friends, family and community
builds communication skills
cost-effective

For community

decreased recidivism
increased community partnerships and sharing of resources
sense of unity in collective action

How does RJ work?

There are a variety of different restorative justice processes.

The process used will vary based on the capabilities and preferences of each program.

Some examples include:

Victim-Offender Mediation

Peacemaking Circles

Community Justice Forums

Community Accountability Panels

Get in touch with your local Restorative Justice organization to find out which model they use.