Restorative Justice Programs

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the flaws with restorative justice programs and presents some of the major criticisms of these programs in order to gain a better understanding not only of the implications of restorative justice, but the larger criminal justice system as well. In particular, the paper explores seven criticisms of restorative justice programs, such as problems of identifying the real victims, cultural differences and accountability. For all of the good intentions of restorative justice programs, the paper concludes that, from many points of view, they are flawed and do not belong in the realm of the court system.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Restorative Justice in Historical Context
Criticism 1- Identifying the Real Victims
Criticism 2- What Process Should be Used?
Criticism 3- Which Outcomes Should be Pursued?
Criticism 4- At What Price Restoration?
Criticism 5- Cultural Differences Can Cloud Restorative Justice Efforts
Criticism 6- Some Offenders Cannot be Rehabilitated
Criticism 7- An Escape from Accountability
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Another important point needs to be made at this time- restorative justice is typically associated strictly with criminal situations or civil situations. Perhaps one of the answers to the criticisms of restorative justice is to in fact remove it from the realm of the courts and place it in the civilian realm. For example, there may be some overriding interest to be served by making restorative justice a separate branch, aside from organized courts of law. This may unburden court systems and put much of the controversy to rest."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Bradt, L., Vettenburg, N., & Roose, R. (2007). Relevant Others in Restorative Practices for Minors: For What Purposes? Australian and New Zealand Journal of Criminology, 40(3), 291+.
• Braithwaite, J. (2002). Restorative Justice and Responsive Regulation. New York: Oxford University Press.
• Dignan, J. (2005). Understanding Victims and Restorative Justice. Maidenhead, England: Open University Press.
• Roach, K. (2000). Changing Punishment at the Turn of the Century: Restorative Justice on the Rise. Canadian Journal of Criminology, 42(3), 249.
• Turpin, J. (1999, October). Restorative Justice Challenges Corrections. Corrections Today, 61, 60.

More papers on Restorative Justice Programs:

• Persuasive Essay # 144994 : "Restorative Justice for Drug Crimes"
• Comparison Essay # 56652 : "Restorative and Retributive Justice"
• Analytical Essay # 149372 : "Victims of Crimes Assistance Programs"

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