Restorative justice

Models of restorative conferencing in other countries

• Victim-offender mediation
  Gordon Bazemore and Mark Umbreit, 2001. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Juvenile justice bulletin, February 2001

  This process has operated since the mid 1970's throughout North America and Europe. Offenders are referred to the process as a means of diversion from the formal justice system, and this option is generally undertaken in relation to property offenders and young people for whom diversion is the most appropriate option. Cases involving violence and serious offences may only be referred on a discretionary basis (at the victim's request).

• Community reparative boards
  Gordon Bazemore and Mark Umbreit, 2001. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Juvenile justice bulletin, February 2001

  Community reparative boards are comprised of community members who are seeking reparation for crimes committed by non-violent adult offenders, and convene to determine a range of appropriate sanctions and monitor the offenders' compliance. The process operates at a probationary level within North America (especially Vermont) and aims to ensure community involvement in justice procedures, victim involvement and satisfaction with the justice system, and encourages the offender to take responsibility for their actions.

• Family group conferencing
  Gordon Bazemore and Mark Umbreit, 2001. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Juvenile justice bulletin, February 2001

  Conferencing is undertaken in New Zealand and the United States and has been operating since the early 1990's. This process primarily targets juvenile offenders and operates as a diversionary measure. In the New Zealand model, all young offenders are eligible for enrolment (with the exception of those charged with murder and manslaughter), and the foundations of this approach are centred in Maori sanctioning and dispute resolution procedures. (See also: Restorative Justice in New Zealand / Allison Morris and Gabrielle Maxwell, 1998, Western Criminology Review, vol.1 no. 1, Restorative Justice in New Zealand: Family Group Conferences as a Case Study)

• Circle sentencing
  Gordon Bazemore and Mark Umbreit, 2001. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Juvenile justice bulletin, February 2001

  The foundations of this sentencing process are found in northern Canada (primarily the Yukon), as well as selected states of North America. Adult and juvenile offenders may be referred to the process, either as a diversionary mechanism or as an alternative to a formal court hearing. All offenders (both first time and repeat) are eligible for involvement, provided that they have expressed their guilt and desire for reform. Similarly, the entire range of offences may be dealt with, including those that may be considered serious and violent. The aim of the process is to provide a means of healing of both the victim and the offender by empowering the victim and allowing the offender to make amends for the consequences of the criminality.