NCJ Number
102559
Date Published
1986
Length
8 pages
Annotation
A victim-centered approach to criminal justice would place much more emphasis on victim compensation and might also promote ways of resolving conflicts without the use of the official criminal justice processes.
Abstract
Victims are part of the criminal justice process, but the system does not focus on their needs. Victims are often less concerned with the offender's punishment than with being compensated for the damages they have suffered. It is not always possible for offenders to repay victims personally. However, the offender's willingness to pay compensation could become a factor used in sentencing. In addition, efforts at victim-offender reconciliation might be valuable in cases involving minor crimes. The State should also help victims collect the compensation to which they are entitled, rather than placing the burden of collection on the victim. Another need is the expansion of the scope of public assistance and of trials that are free of costs to the victim. Reforms outside the criminal justice system could include the expanded use of mediation without trial and the education of potential victims on ways to reduce risks. Overemphasis on the latter approach, however, would generate the view that the burden of behavior change was being placed on victims rather than criminals. Efforts to make policy more victim-centered should also avoid restricting the focus to individual victims and immediate harm.