Victim Awareness Process
Step 1 : Training on Restorative Justice
The first step is to inform victims about the concept of restorative justice and how it can impact their situation. By educating victims about restorative justice, they will have a better understanding of their role in the crime response process. Learning and understanding the theory and purpose of restorative justice will help all stakeholders reach a consensus on the best way to address the harm that has been caused.
- Restorative justice representatives and those trained to speak with victims of crime will educate victims on the concepts of restorative justice and how it can be tailored to their specific case.
- Victims are able to ask questions during any step of the process.
The second step emphasizes the sympathy and empathy required for restorative justice. Victims have experienced a variety and unjust treatment and their concerns must be heard, respected, and addressed.
- Victims will be taken to a place that makes them feel comfortable and relaxed. These locations may include any indoor or outdoor location, such as a church, someone's home, parks, or a restaurant. A quiet and peaceful atmosphere is recommended.
- One volunteer and one trained restorative justice representative will lead a conversation with a victim, preferably individually, to discuss any emotions, concerns, or questions about the crime that has occurred and what is being done to resolve it.
The final step, the most imperative step, is to fully address the needs and concerns of the victims that would have been discussed in step one and to determine how these needs can be met by the restorative justice practices taught in step two.
- Victims will meet with legal representatives from the case and from the restorative justice team to determine what actions need to be taken to involve the offender and the community and to meet the needs of the victims
- The restorative justice team will supply the victim with options for resolving any open ended concerns between any parties involved in crime
- These options may include: face-to-face dialogue between the victim and offender, mediated dialogue between the victim and offender, and/or circle conferences
- Needs that are capable of being fulfilled will be addressed immediately