RESTORATIVE JUSTICE IN JUVENILE COURT: PROMOTING ACCOUNTABILITY AND REHABILITATION
Abstract:
Restorative justice is an alternative approach to traditional punitive measures within the juvenile court system, focusing on accountability and rehabilitation rather than solely punishment. This abstract provides an overview of the concept of restorative justice in the context of the juvenile court system, highlighting its potential benefits and challenges.
The abstract begins by discussing the traditional punitive model of juvenile justice and its limitations, including its emphasis on punishment rather than addressing the underlying causes of offending behavior. It then introduces restorative justice as a response to these limitations, emphasizing a more holistic and community-based approach.
The abstract further explores the core principles of restorative justice, such as inclusivity, dialogue, and the involvement of affected parties, including the victim, offender, and community. It emphasizes the importance of empowering and holding the offender accountable for their actions while also emphasizing the opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The potential benefits of restorative justice in the juvenile court system are discussed, including its potential to reduce recidivism rates, foster empathy and understanding, and promote healing for all parties involved. Additionally, the abstract highlights the positive outcomes associated with increased victim satisfaction and the restoration of community trust.
However, the abstract also acknowledges the challenges and criticisms surrounding the implementation of restorative justice in the juvenile court system. These challenges include concerns about ensuring procedural fairness, managing power dynamics, and addressing cases involving serious or violent offenses.
In conclusion, this abstract highlights the potential of restorative justice as a promising approach within the juvenile court system. By promoting accountability and rehabilitation while involving the community, restorative justice offers an alternative to punitive measures, aiming to restore relationships and foster positive change among juveniles involved in the justice system. Further research and practical implementation efforts are necessary to fully harness the potential of restorative justice in promoting a more just and effective juvenile justice system.