This is not usually dealt with in court. Most victims want to ask the offender questions about the crime, or talk about its impact. Some might want to see if they have reason to fear the offender in the future. Offenders usually don't learn about the human cost of their actions in a court setting. The conferencing process allows them a time and a place to learn the consequences of what they have done.
Offenders also learn to accept responsibility.
They provide answers to the victim's questions, and they have a say about what they will do to make things right again. Before a conference, the mediator meets with all parties seperately, listens to what each person tell how they were affected by what happened, explains the program, and if everyone agrees, arranges for a conference. During the conference the mediator sets the rules, ensures the process is safe and fair for all involved, and when necessary, helps the parties work out a restitution agreement.