Motion for Diversion to Restorative Justice Program

This draft motion argues for diversion to restorative justice (RJ) programming in lieu of imposing a traditional probation sentence. Section I (p. 1-3) explains the basic tenets of restorative justice, citing research showing restorative justice is more effective at reducing recidivism than conventional court processes. Section II (p. 3-6) argues that restorative justice works even in the absence of victim participation, citing research that use of victim surrogates may even increase its efficacy. Section III (p. 6-7) provides research-based support for restorative justice as an effective and appropriate tool for rehabilitating perpetrators of violent and bias-based harm (countering the narrative that restorative justice should be limited to nonviolent crime).