What does "restorative justice" emphasize in juvenile law?

Restorative justice in juvenile law emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through reconciliation and engagement between the offender, the victim, and the community. This approach focuses on addressing the needs of all parties involved rather than solely punishing the offender. It encourages accountability through dialogue and understanding, enabling the offender to take responsibility for their actions while also empowering the victim and allowing for healing.

This approach contrasts significantly with punitive models, which prioritize punishment and often do not involve opportunities for victims and offenders to meet or reconcile. By fostering a holistic view of justice, restorative practices can lead to more meaningful resolutions that benefit individuals and communities. This focus on repairing relationships and restoring harmony effectively distinguishes restorative justice from traditional juvenile justice methods that might lean toward punitive measures or incarceration.