During this meeting the offender has the opportunity to discuss his or her own views about the crime. The victim and the offender then work toward an agreement to redress the grievances caused by the offender s criminal conduct. The agreement may require restitution, work performance, community service performance or participating in a third party counseling program. The successful implementation and completion of the agreement will help to bring closure for all parties. The VOMP will report to the District Attorney s office, which then will complete the process.
Mediation provides a victim rights intervention that humanizes the criminal justice system.
As a result of mediation agreements offenders are held accountable without the high human and economic costs currently experienced with traditional juvenile justice systems. VOM increases the community s understanding and ownership of the criminal justice process as a result of victim and volunteer involvement. The victim and the offender decide upon the agreement outcome. Mediation can be quicker and cost less than court. Mediation can help to preserve and improve relationships.