Restorative Justice Process

In the restorative justice process, the state is removed from playing the role of the victim and the actual victim is prioritized and respected. The restorative process gives victims the chance to explain how the crime has affected their lives, receive answers to their questions, and often times offered an apology from the offender. This approach assist the criminal justice system in repairing the harm caused to the victims and begins the process of reconciliation. The offender acknowledges responsibility for his or her actions, and is held accountable to the victim and/or community through the state’s criminal justice system. The offender then puts forth an effort to make amends for the negative effects his or her crime has caused. Another
focus is placed on rebuilding relationships that were damaged by crime, helping offenders become productive members in society again, and victims and families make new connections with positive individuals and support groups