Italian Experiences of Victim-Offender Mediation in the Juvenile Justice System (From Restorative Justice for Juveniles: Potentialities, Risks and Problems, P 201-217, 1998, Lode Walgrave, ed. -- See NCJ-180156)

• NCJ Number: 180162
• Author(s): Uberto Gatti; Adolfo Ceretti
• Editor(s): Lode Walgrave
• Date Published: 1998
• Length: 17 pages
• Sale Source: Leuven University Press
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Conference Material
• Language: English
• Country: Belgium

Annotation

The development of mediation and reparation practices in Italy's juvenile justice system is reviewed.

Abstract

Several procedures have been implemented by the Mediation Office: (1) the proceeding magistrate receives the consent to the mediation from the minor and from his or her parents; (2) the mediator contacts the victim and the minor to determine whether mediation is feasible; (3) the mediator explains how mediation works during the first individual interview; (4) the mediator finds an agreement for the meeting date; (5) the result of mediation is evaluated by the mediator; and (6) the mediator prepares a written report of the result of the mediation. Mediation is generally promoted for less serious juvenile crimes and preferably for juveniles between 16 and 18 years of age. The historical evolution of the juvenile justice system in Italy is outlined, the role of mediation in criminal procedure is addressed, and information on cases of victim-offender mediation is provided. The effectiveness of mediation in promoting responsibility among juvenile offenders is examined. 11 references and 9 footnotes