Forensics - restorative justice Flashcards
what is restorative justice
offender comes face to face with victim to try and get closure/reconciliation for both parties
what is the key aim of RJ for victims
have an active role, not feel victimised and heal from the event -> ‘crime hurts, justice should heal’ (Braithwaite)
what is the key aim of RJ for offenders
see impact of their crime, rehabilitation, understand that their choices have consequences
how is RJ conducted
face to face or online or letters
what is restitution (RJ)
offender pays for damage to house, etc. can also actively help repair belongings
when can RJ take place
before trial - this is then taken into account when deciding punishment for crime, as an alternative to prison or while in prison
what are the five R’s (key elements of RJ)
- relationship -> offender needs to feel accountable to heal the relationship
- respect -> active listening
- responsibility -> even if harm was unintentional
- repair -> repair the damage they have done. victims also need to let go of thoughts of revenge
- reintegration -> emphasis on positive outcomes for both parties
who promotes the use of RJ in the UK
Restorative Justice Council
Sherman (2007)
found RJ reduced recidivism in offenders who had been convicted of violent crimes
strengths of RJ
+ flexible to fit each crime/victim/offender
+ Sherman and Strang found victims’ mental health improved after they had voiced their emotions
+ RJC found 85% of survivors were satisfied with process of RJ and 70% would recommend
+ reduced recidivism (Sherman)
limitations of RJ
- not appropriate for all crimes e.g. domestic abuse as there is a power imbalance
- offenders may abuse the system by trying to avoid punishment, play down their faults, etc.
- RJ can be said to ‘use’ the victims to try and ‘repair’ the offenders. needs of victim seen secondary to offender?
