Summary
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This essay discusses family group conferencing (FGC) as was introduced to North America by five Australians and the Real Justice" organization in Pennsylvania. This model is compared with victim offender mediation (VOM). Both FGC and VOM have many similarities regarding purpose, process and intended outcome. Similarities and differences are also discussed regarding case preparation, the role of the facilitator/mediator, recruitment of participants, and community involvement. The potential dangers in replicating FGCs in the U.S. are discussed. The authors call for collaborative evaluation and model development to further the practice of restorative justice.
