How Restorative Justice Works

Restorative justice is a carefully guided process that helps victims and offenders talk about what happened and how to move forward. It takes place in a safe, supported environment, led by trained facilitators.

Participation is always voluntary, and each step is handled with care and respect.

The process begins with a referral from the court, usually after someone has pleaded guilty to an offence. Restorative justice is typically offered before sentencing.

Referrals can also come from lawyers, police or directly from individuals involved in a case.

Once a referral is received, our facilitators will contact both the victim and the offender separately to:

Explain what restorative justice is

  • Answer any questions
  • Check whether they’re interested and willing to take part
  • Make sure the process feels safe and appropriate for everyone

If both parties agree to move forward, the facilitators will meet with each person (and any support people) to prepare for the face-to-face meeting. This involves:

Talking through what to expect

  • Helping them express their thoughts and feelings
  • Making sure the setting and timing are right
  • Ensuring any safety concerns are addressed
  • No one will be rushed or pressured—readiness and consent are essential.

This is the heart of the process: a facilitated meeting where victims, offenders, and their support people come together.

During the conference:

  • The victim can talk about the harm caused and how they’ve been affected
  • The offender has a chance to take responsibility and respond
  • Everyone can ask questions and be heard
  • Together, they can work on an agreement to repair the harm
  • Outcomes may include an apology, community service, financial reparation, or a commitment to change.

After the conference, a summary report is prepared and sent to the court. This report outlines what was discussed, any agreements made, and how the process went.

The judge can then take the restorative justice outcome into account during sentencing.

Sometimes, follow-up support or monitoring may be arranged to help make sure any agreements are followed through. Our team stays available to support where needed.