How does it Work?

Utilizing the Nishnawbe-Aski Legal Services Restorative Justice model, Community Youth Justice Workers (CYJWs) process youth diversions from the courts, police, and probation officers in the communities that they serve.

Once diverted, the CYJWs will begin to plan for a justice circle to take place where the youth will be given the opportunity to fully understand their behavior and how it has affected those around them in a way that is culturally suited to them.

Through the involvement of the victim, offenders, and the community, the CYJWs will facilitate healing circles toward a resolution that affords reparation, healing, and successful re-integration, while preventing further harm.

OUR CLIENTS

  • Youth between the ages of 12-17 at the time of diversion
  • Youth who are in trouble with the law
  • Youth who want to make positive and healthy lifestyle changes
  • Youth who are serious about taking responsibility for their actions and behaviors

⇓ Community Youth Restorative Justice Brochure

CONTACT

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

√ RJ Checklist & Post-charge Referral Form

√ Pre-Charge By-Law Referral Form

Examples of Common Referrals

Common charges that may be referred to the program as either pre-charge or post-charge referrals include:

  • Theft
  • Assault
  • Break and enter
  • Breaches
  • Bullying
  • Uttering threats
  • Mischief

The referring party will consider all of the circumstances of the incident before deciding if the program is a good fit.

Pre-Charge VS. Post-Charge

Post-Charge: The client has already been charged by police, and the case is already being dealt with in court and is in the hands of the Crown. These referrals are sent to us by crown attorneys.

Pre-Charge: Police may, at their discretion, refer clients to us without/before charging them. If the client does not participate in programming with NALSC, we refer it back to the officer, who can then charge the client. These referrals are sent to us by police.

Participants of a 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

OUTCOMES & AGREEMENTS

Once a resolution is met, youth may be required to complete following:

  • Apologies and apology letters
  • Community service hours
  • Restitution
  • Attending a treatment program