What is Restorative Justice?

Restorative justice is defined as an alternative form of justice that focuses on addressing the harm caused by crime while holding the offender responsible for their actions. Once the referral comes in, a healing circle is facilitated. This circle provides an opportunity for the parties directly affected by the crime (victims, offenders and community members) to identify and address their needs.

The principles of restorative justice are based on respect, compassion and inclusivity. Restorative justice encourages meaningful engagement and accountability. It provides an opportunity for healing, reparation and reintegration.

The process starts with a traditional circle, led by a restorative justice facilitator. The goal of the circle is to reach an agreement within which the offender agrees to take a course of action to repair harms caused to the victim. It is the responsibility of the offender to put in the effort and dedication needed to uphold the agreement. If the offender is successful in meeting the agreed upon conditions, the the matter is closed. Otherwise, the matter is referred back to the court to proceed regularly.

ELLIGIBLE OFFENCES

  • Theft
  • Assault
  • Break and Enter
  • Breaches
  • Mischief
  • Public Intoxication
  • Impaired Driving
  • Disturbances
  • Possession & Trafficking of controlled substances

Referrals for restorative justice typically come from the Crown Attorney after an individual has been screened and approved for diversion in criminal matters.

Contact

For more information, or to refer a client contact rjreferral@nanlegal.on.ca

Thunder Bay Office
101 Syndicate Ave. N, Suite 2
Thunder Bay, ON
P7C 3V4
Tel: (807) 622-1413
Toll-Free: 1-800-465-5581

√ RJ Checklist & Post-charge Referral Form

√ Pre-Charge By-Law Referral Form

√ Community Learning HUB Referral Form

√ Community Youth Intervention Referral Form

Outcomes & Agreements

Agreements that may be made during a circle include:

  • Volunteering in the community
  • Tending to Elders
  • Apologies
  • Restitution
  • Attending school
  • Attending a treatment/self-help program

This program gives all involved an opportunity to have a voice, heal, and grow within themselves and their communities. We want people to access further resources from this process as well as develop self-determination for positive decision making. Through motivation and understanding, Restorative Justice works towards changing the mindset of offenders, allowing them to live more positively and recognize their strengths as individuals. Lastly, we also aim to replace ineffective, non-traditional and culturally unsuitable justice systems with more culturally appropriate community based healing methods.

Participants of the Restorative Justice Circle

  • The victim(s) and their supports (family, friends)
  • The offender(s) and their supports
  • Key persons involved in helping the offender and victim (youth workers, social workers, teachers, counselors)
  • Elders
  • Community representatives
  • The facilitator

Things to Consider

Has someone been harmed?
Is there a need to repair the harm?
Has the offender admitted responsibility?
Could this cause further harm?
Does the victim want this process?