Healing the harm caused by offending
Community Law Wellington & Hutt Valley provides Restorative Justice services in the wider Wellington region (Wellington, Porirua and Hutt Valley). Restorative Justice gives victims and offenders of crime the opportunity to talk to each other in a safe and supportive environment, and discuss how the harm might be repaired.
Why take part?
It gives those who have been harmed a way to have a voice and seek ways to have their needs met. It gives those who have committed an offence a way to take responsibility for the harm they have caused and start putting things right
How does the Restorative Justice process work?
An offender pleads guilty to the offence and agrees to take part in a meeting.
The victim(s) are interested in finding out more about restorative justice
Trained facilitators meet separately with each party and their support people
If appropriate, a conference is held with the involved parties and their support people.
For Court-based referrals, a report of the conference is sent to the court
When can RJ take place?
Prior to sentencing
After sentencing
Prior to release from prison
Where to start?
Lawyers can request a referral once a guilty plea has been entered
Police or Victim Advisors can request a referral
The Judge may make a referral
Victims or offenders may call us directly
Sentenced prisoners can talk to their Case Managers
Our Restorative Justice Team
Office 04 499 2928
Email us at restorativejustice@wclc.org.nz
Wellington District Court Coordinator: 022 123 6065 or esther@wclc.org.nz
Hutt Valley District Court Coordinator: 0220246035 or jessica@wclc.org.nz
Porirua District Court Coordinator: 0211902437 or michael.freeman@wclc.org.nz