Solution 2) Restorative Justice

Question 1

Aims

Answer 1

1) Rehabilitate offender and in theory reduce reoffending.
2) “Atonement” for wrong doing - financial compensation and see victim perspective and victim gets closure.
Idea that offenders face up to their actions and victims relives experience and gets closure.

Question 2

Restorative Justice Council

Answer 2

2015, 85% of victims questioned found it satisfactory. 
Introduced 6 principles for restorative justice:
1) Restoration.
2) Voluntarism.
3) Neutrality. 
4) Safety. 
5) Accessibility. 
6) Respect.

Question 3

Andrews and Bonta

Answer 3

+ Evidence from research shows it does reduce reoffending.

Question 4

Sherman vs. Strong

Answer 4

+ Of the number they questioned, only 11% reoffended.

Question 5

Shapland

Answer 5

+ For every £1 spent on restorative justice, “saves £8 pp.

Question 6

Effectiveness

Answer 6

• Can be seen as the “soft option”/”getting off lightly”.
• Some victims refuse to meet offender - apology is then written - may not be as effective.
  + However, research does show it is most effective with young first time offenders.

Question 7

Conclusion

Answer 7

• Victim may feel worse - possible psychological harm.
• May believe offender is insincere.
  + Research shows it is highly ethical.
  + Socially effective - reduces reoffending prosecution, prison population , cost effective, effective for young first timers.
  + Custody ineffective - custody can protect public and punish offender; however, highest prison population in Europe and highest reoffending rates.