A new episode of Silence Broken: The IPV Talks is looking at how restorative justice could be used in some intimate partner violence cases.
Bob Perreault and Erin Lee discussed the issue, saying it remains a difficult and debated topic. Lee said restorative justice is not meant to replace the court system in every case, but it may offer another path in carefully chosen situations.
Lee said the traditional court system often focuses on punishment, while the alternate approach take a different path.
Lee said the approach would not be suitable for cases involving long-term violence, many charges, children, or serious escalation.
Lee said it may be worth considering in earlier relationships where survivors want that option and safety can be protected.
The goal, says Lee, is to keep the conversation open and explore alternatives that could help prevent further violence.
The full episode of Silence Broken: The IPV Talks is available below.
