Family Conferencing

Family Court of the Fifth Circuit selects youthful offenders to participate in this restorative justice program.  This group conflict resolution process focuses on repairing relationships when offenders admit wrongdoing.  The conference provides the opportunity for the victim to explain how they were harmed, and ask questions of the offender.  The supporters of the victim and offender have an opportunity to describe how they have been affected by the incident.  The conference ends with a reparation agreement in which all participants decide how the youth can make things right, or "pono," with the victim.  A follow-up conference determines whether the plan was carried out, and strengthens learning to prevent re-offending.  

Contact LaVerne Bishop for more information.