Benefits of Restorative Dialogue

What are the benefits for victims?

• An opportunity to have a voice in the justice process
• An opportunity to ask the offender questions and gain a better understanding of the offence
• An opportunity to tell the offender about the impact the crime has had on them
• The ability to directly influence how the offender is held accountable and repairs the harm
• A voluntary choice to participate in the process and contribute to the outcomes

What are the benefits for offenders?

• The chance to accept responsibility for actions and be held accountable
• The opportunity to gain a better understanding of how others have been affected by the offence
• An opportunity to repair the harm caused
• An opportunity to apologize
• A chance to show the human side of their character
• The possibility of acceptance back into the community

What are the benefits for the community?

• A constructive, community-based approach to justice which addresses individual needs and circumstances
• A way to respond to a crime that is more personalized and less systemic
• When appropriate cases from the criminal justice system are brought to restorative processes, the result is often more efficient use of public funds
• May prevent escalation or continuation in criminal activity by early intervention with offenders
• Improves public understanding of, and trust in, the justice system by actively engaging citizens