Restorative Justice

“Restorative justice is a process to involve, to the extent possible, those who have a stake in an offense and to collectively identify and address harms, needs and obligations, in order to heal and put things right as possible.”- Howard Zehr, PhD.

Restorative justice can take place in many kinds of cases as long as there are willing participants and a safe environment. Boulder County Sheriff’s Office Restorative Justice program receives referrals from law enforcement for adults and youth who are facing criminal charges for both felonies and misdemeanors such as: shoplifting, harassment, theft, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, possession, and disorderly conduct.

At Boulder County Sheriff’s Office Restorative Justice (RJ), we use a circle process for our conferences. What takes place in the circle remains confidential, so participants can have an honest exchange about the harm. All volunteers sign a confidentiality agreement and each person who participates in a circle (offender, victim, community member and/or support) commits to confidentiality.

Here’s a basic outline of the process.

1. Referral by law enforcement.
2. Initial contact with RJ Coordinator.
3. Preliminary meetings with volunteer facilitators.
4. Facilitators bring together a conference with all affected parties, community volunteers and law enforcement. A contract is created and must be completed by the offender within a specific timeframe.
5. Once the contract is completed, and the offender has fulfilled their obligations for that incident, no further actions are required.
6. If, however, the contract is not completed, the case is referred back to law enforcement for charges.

• Victim Impact Facilitator
• Volunteer as a facilitator
• Sheriff Volunteer Application Form