Criminal Code (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-46)

Marginal note:Principles

715.53 The following additional principles apply to the use of restorative justice processes:

• (a) restorative justice processes prioritize the acknowledgement and acceptance of responsibility for the harm caused to victims and communities and the repair of that harm by the person alleged to have committed an offence or the offender;

• (b) they are voluntary and participants must fully and freely consent to participate and may freely withdraw from the restorative justice process at any time;

• (c) they take into consideration the safety and security of all participants and seek to prevent further harm;

• (d) they are based on courtesy, compassion and respect, including respect for the dignity of all participants;

• (e) they foster and support the meaningful participation of those affected, including victims, persons alleged to have committed an offence and offenders and their communities;

• (f) they enable participants to communicate openly and honestly and to have an active role in determining how to address their needs, as they perceive them; and

• (g) they provide opportunities for understanding, healing and change and contribute to the restoration and recovery of victims and the rehabilitation and reintegration of persons alleged to have committed an offence or offenders.