Understanding Restorative Justice

Abstract

Abstract This chapter offers a brief history of the restorative justice movement in the United States. In order to do so it contrasts retributive and restorative justice goals and their application. Restorative justice is described as a theory and process designed to address needs and harms following a crime. Additionally, the needs of victims and offenders are explored. Towards the end of repairing harm, the chapter also examines two restorative processes: Truth and Reconciliation Commissions; and Victim-Offender Dialogue. Most importantly, it brings together the death row families with restorative justice and makes the case that they need to be included in restorative justice theory and supported by restorative justice-based processes. The chapter draws from an interview with Bud Welch, who met with Bill McVeigh following Timothy McVeigh's destruction of the Murrah Federal Building, which killed Bud Welch's daughter, Julie Marie.