Restorative justice processes and intimate partner violence: a qualitative systematic review of perceived benefits, risks, and best practices for victims

This systematic review sought to synthesize stakeholder perspectives relating to benefits, risks, and recommendations for using restorative justice (RJ) practices in cases of intimate partner violence (IPV). The review identified 16 articles containing the perspectives of IPV victims and relevant stakeholders, including RJ facilitators, judges, victim advocates, and IPV experts on the perceived benefits, risks, and recommendations for use of RJ practices for IPV. The results highlight a range of potential benefits afforded to IPV victims through their participation in RJ processes; however, inherent risks are identified, which may limit the utility of RJ in IPV cases and undermine potential benefits. Benefits included increasing victim voice and empowerment, addressing needs and providing greater support for victims, and supporting relationships between victims and perpetrators. Risks included the risk of power imbalances between victims and perpetrators, retraumatization of victims, and RJ delivered by unskilled facilitators who fail to provide adequate care and information to victims. Recommendations captured in the review may help mitigate risks and increase positive outcomes for victims.