What does ‘restorative justice’ mean in juvenile justice?

Restorative justice in juvenile justice emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through practices that involve not just the offender, but also the victim and the community in the process. This approach prioritizes dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among all parties affected by a crime. It seeks to address the underlying issues that contribute to juvenile offending, foster accountability, and encourage rehabilitation rather than retribution.

By engaging the community and facilitating discussions between victims and offenders, restorative justice helps to create outcomes that are beneficial not only for the individuals directly involved but also for the broader community. This method recognizes the impact of crime on victims and works to restore relationships, promote healing, and reintegrate offenders in a constructive manner. The overarching aim is to reduce recidivism and improve social outcomes by focusing on personal accountability and communal restoration rather than solely on punishment.