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HALLMARK RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PROGRAMS Victim – Offender Mediation Victim – offender mediation is regularly a face – to – face meeting between the victim of a crime and the person who committed the crime. The meeting will always be accompanied by a trained, professional mediator. The type of program will have a small amount of participants, and often is the only option available to incarcerated offenders. Common names synonymous with Victim – offender mediation are: victim –offender dialogue, victim – offender conferencing, victim – offender reconciliation or restorative justice dialogue. Family Group Conferencing Having a much wider circle than the victim- offender mediation, in addition to the offender and the victim, participants may include people associated with the victim, the offender’s family and others associated with the offender or victim. Family group conferencing is appropriate for juvenile offenders because of the important role of family in any juvenile’s life. Victim Impact Panels This is an example of a restorative justice program established by Honorable Marianne E. Becker. This program consists of a panel of victims or associated family of victims that speak out to a group of offenders regarding the crime that was committed. Many victim impact panels circle around the offenses of drunk driving. The panel will be mediated by a trained professional. Sentencing Circles Sentencing circles use traditional circle rituals and involve the victim, victim supporters, the offender, offender supporters, judge and court personnel, prosecutor, defense council, police and any interested community member. Within the circle, people can speak freely and from the heart with regards to learning more about the crime and together identifying steps necessary in healing all the affected individuals and to help prevent future crime. |
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