They also have their say about how they feel about what happened. We like to say that the most important piece of paper in the procedure is the tissue, and emotions are on the table. Opinion evidence is freely allowed, within the bounds of saying things in a respectful way. That means that it is time for the peacemaker to do some teaching. The peacemaker will relate parts of the Hajine Bahane , our creation lore, and apply it to the problem.
Peacemakers have very definite opinions about what they hear while talking things out.
Finally, based upon the prayer, venting, discussion, and knowledge of the traditional way of doing things, the people themselves usually reach a consensus decision about what to do. Planning is actually a central Navajo justice concept, and the people plan a very practical resolution to the problem. Today, we put it in writing and the parties sign it. In one recent case out of our Crownpoint court, a woman was charged with threatening and the illegal discharge of a firearm because she went to her nephew's house, threatened to shoot his dogs, and shot off a gun near the dogs. She was found guilty after a trial.