NCJ Number
213313
Journal
Theoretical Criminology Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2006 Pages: 49-66
Date Published
February 2006
Length
18 pages
Annotation
Focusing on feminist and women-centered approaches, current literature and trends in Canada are mapped out in the area of restorative justice and intimate violence.
Abstract
Even though western restorative justice (RJ) and Aboriginal justice have increased in Canada, it is argued that a moratorium on new western RJ or Aboriginal justice in cases of intimate violence is adhered to until more research has been conducted. There is a need for additional empirical evidence supporting the use of western RJ and Aboriginal justice as safe and effective in cases of intimate violence. Additional research should examine factors such as offender’s manipulation of the process, emphasis on reconciliation, the resources available to violent men and to victims, and the presence or absence of feminist voices in planning, executing, and evaluating the initiatives. A new Canadian research agenda is recommended on western RJ, Aboriginal Justice, and intimate violence. It is widely proclaimed that western RJ principles are derived from Aboriginal traditions in Canada. In essence, the traditional Aboriginal justice is based on the restorative model. However, wide discussion has arisen about western RJ, Aboriginal justice, and intimate violence in Canada. This article maps out the tone and complexity of Canadian debates over western RJ and Aboriginal justice in the area of intimate violence. It outlines the ways that RJ is used in Canada in response to intimate violence, with attention to differences between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal initiatives. It then analyzes the debates between Canadian Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal women on RJ, Aboriginal justice, and intimate violence. References