The state Crime Victims Board advocates for the rights and benefits of innocent victims and provides compensation from fines and seizures levied against felons. It is usually offered after fault or admission of guilt has been established. Mediation provides a safe and controlled setting for victims to ask questions that only the offender can answer. Traditionally offenders are rarely confronted with the human and personal consequences of their actions. In mediation victims can express how the crime affected their lives.
Victims play an active role in determining the type and amount of restitution to be made.
Offenders can describe the circumstance surrounding the incident and have the opportunity to apologize directly to the victim. Offenders participate in determining restitution and, where appropriate, reconciliation. Mediation allows the participants to create solutions beyond the courts' scope. There is no fee for this service and contributions are welcome.