Dialogue on Restorative Justice and Women Who are Victims of Violence

Source: (2002) A discussion paper in preparation for the Restorative Justice and Violence Against Women Workshop. January 15.

Justice Options for Women Project started in 1999 because some community members and organizations were concerned that restorative justice approaches would be used in cases where women had been victims of violence, and in particular that such approaches would be used without sufficient consideration of the needs of women and consultation with the community. A Steering Committee for the project maintained that women needed options within the justice system besides restorative justice. This dialogue and the ensuing workshop are intended to improve understanding of the problems and benefits of restorative justice approaches for women.