Restorative Justice in the NCTCA

Restorative justice is a concept that offers an alternative approach to dealing with crime and its consequences. Rather than treating a criminal act as a mere violation of a rule or law, it acknowledges the harm caused to individuals and relationships. The primary focus of restorative justice is to repair the harm caused by a crime while holding the offender accountable for their actions. This accountability involves accepting responsibility and taking measures to make amends for the harm caused.

The opportunity for victims to express their experiences, full participation in decision-making, and community support are all essential components of the healing process following a serious crime. The community’s involvement in restorative justice provides an opportunity to establish standards of conduct and hold offenders accountable while also providing support to the parties involved and opportunities to help repair the harm that has occurred. In the aftermath of a serious crime, the ability of victims to express the harm they have experienced, their full participation in decision-making, and support from the community all aid in the healing process.