What is balanced and restorative justice and how is this concept being applied to juvenile justice?
Balanced and restorative justice (sometimes referred to as just restorative justice) is seen by many as the most positive development to emerge in juvenile justice during the 1990s and one that continues to expand notably. Its premises are that 1) crime causes harm and is a violation of individuals, communities, and relationships; 2) the harm that was done needs to be ascertained; and 3) the justice system should repair or ensure the harm is repaired to the extent possible and that the wounds that crime causes are healed. Justice, then, should expand its focus and methods beyond punishment or treatment of offenders, and, in turn, facilitate and accomplish restorative justice. Further, the community needs to be an active partner with the justice system, and a community justice mission is necessary where outcomes or goals include joining with communities to strengthen their capacities to prevent and control crime and to support and reintegrate both victims and offenders. Applications inc
