Adult restorative justice conferencing - Justice Mediations

Restorative Justice mediations

As a Nationally Accredited Mediator who also practices in both prosecuting and defending criminal matters, my alternative dispute resolution practice includes the provision of adult restorative justice conferences, otherwise known as justice mediations.

Sometimes the prospect of attending Court, giving evidence and participating in the justice system can feel overbearing to a survivor who simply wishes to have their voice heard, be acknowledged and seek an out-of-court outcome.

These mediations bring together the survivor and offender to talk about the offending and how the harm caused by the criminal behaviour has affected the survivor. The purpose is two-fold:

• first, it provides the survivor an opportunity to hold the offender to account in telling their story and having that person listen to the affects their actions have caused; and,

• second, it provides the opportunity for the offender to take responsibility for their actions and address how they will seek to repair them.

This mediation is usually referred by Police, the Prosecution, the Court or Corrective Services where appropriate.

Conferencing can take between two and four hours and moves at the pace the parties require.

Outcomes of justice mediations can include:

• Letters of apology

• Return and repatriation of stolen goods

• Restitution for actual losses associated with the offending - for example, repair costs to property, medical expenses, etc.

• Compensation recognising the harm caused

These outcomes are not exhaustive, and are recorded to ensure compliance by the offender by the Court.

Should you wish to contact me to act as a mediator for a justice mediation, please use the contact me link.

The Queensland Government have a number of resources for persons considering this type of mediation service, available at this link.