The when, how and why of Restorative Justice: Police and prosecutor perceptions on suitability for victim- offender mediation in Finland

• In Event: RJ in Institutions

Abstract

In many western countries, criminal justice officials are responsible for assessing the suitability of criminal cases to restorative justice practices such as victim- offender mediation. Recent European studies on police discretion points to a variation in the vetting practices, indicating differing perceptions of when, how, and why victim- offender mediation is an appropriate reaction to crime.
Building on previous research, this study explores the perceptions and motives that guide the police and prosecutors in evaluating criminal cases for victim- offender mediation. The study draws on semi-structured interviews (N=17) with police officers and prosecutors collected during 2020-2021.
Applying thematic analysis, findings show varying perceptions on the right timing of addressing conflicts, the most suitable way to initiate the mediation process, as well as factors that may influence variation in the vetting process. The findings provide further discussion on whether variations in vetting practices hinder or enhance the restorative principles of victim- offender mediation.

Author

• aino jauhiainen, Institute of criminology and legal policy