Restorative Justice: Exploring Pillars for Success

• In Event: Restorative Justice in Schools and Communities

Abstract

With the increased acceptance of various youth courts based on restorative justice principles to divert first time, non-violent offenders away from formal juvenile court entry, there is little systematic research that examines and assesses the effectiveness of the various teen/peer court practices. This study connects Salt Lake Peer Court and Utah Administrative Office of the Courts Juvenile Court Administration data to analyze the effectiveness of various dispositions assigned during the peer court process. Effectiveness is measured as the successful completion of the peer court process, as well as reduced recidivism. Recidivism is defined as formal contact with the Juvenile Justice System within one year of exiting the Salt Lake Peer Court program. It is hypothesized that dispositions focused on community service will increase the likelihood of successful completion of the peer court program, and reduce the likelihood of recidivism.

Authors

• Rebecca Young Owen, University of Utah

• Ed A. Munoz, University of Utah