By Stephanie Wallace and Malindi Sayle -
Snapshot
- Forum sentencing is a restorative justice program that operates in selected NSW Local Courts as an alternative sentencing option. It provides a unique opportunity for victims to participate directly in the criminal justice process and for offenders to take responsibility for their actions
- The program brings together the victim, offender and those affected by the offence to discuss what happened and how people were affected. The participants have the opportunity to formulate a tailored intervention plan for the offender to repair the harm caused and reduce their risk of re-offending
Restorative justice approaches
Restorative justice is an approach to justice underpinned by the understanding that crime causes harm to people, to relationships, and to the community. Reparation of these harms requires the offender, victim and the affected community to come together to resolve collectively how to deal with the aftermath of the offence.
As a more inclusive and victim-centred alternative to the traditional justice process, restorative justice practices have now been adopted widely across the world.
