How effective is restorative justice from the victim's perspective?
• Victims generally report high satisfaction, with the UK Restorative Justice Council (2015) reporting 85% satisfaction in face-to-face meetings. In some cases, satisfaction is even higher (e.g., Avon and Somerset reported 92.5% for violent crimes)
How effective is restorative justice in reducing reoffending?
• Research by Sherman & Strang (2007) showed that restorative justice reduced reoffending in all studies reviewed, with some showing significant reductions compared to prison sentences. For example, one study showed 11% reoffending among those who participated in restorative justice, compared to 37% in a control group.
Who is eligible for restorative justice?
• Restorative justice is only suitable for offenders who have admitted their crime. Some types of crime may not be suitable for restorative justice, and some victims may decline the offer.
