I have been charged with a crime

If your answer is “yes” to the following questions, our program can assist you.

  • Have you been charged with a criminal offence?

  • Do you feel badly that others were negatively affected by your actions?

  • Would you like to have the opportunity to apologize?

  • Would you like some assistance in addressing the root causes of your behaviour?

  • Are you ready to take responsibility for your actions but don't know the next step?

  • Do you want to meet the victims to apologize in person?

 
 
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We can accompany you through the criminal justice process.

  • We can help you identify and address the personal issues that contributed to your criminal behaviour.

  • We can exchange information between you and the victims. This may include describing what led you to be involved in this incident, your apology and how you feel since the event took place.

  • You may learn about the impact of the crime on the lives of those affected. In a sense, this puts a human face to the victims. They will also learn about you.

  • You may offer your ideas on how you wish to repair the harm that you caused. You will have the opportunity to work on a Resolution Agreement with the victims.

  • We can facilitate a meeting between you, your support people and the victims and their support people, should that be what both parties choose.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get referred to the program?
Talk to your lawyer - he/she will know how to contact the CJP Caseworkers. Remember that participation is voluntary for both you and the victim. The process only proceeds when both parties choose to participate.

Will my participation in the program affect the sentence I receive?
Sentencing remains the role and responsibility of the Judge. If you and the victims develop a Resolution Agreement, it can be submitted to the court for consideration at the time of sentencing. Generally, Judges appreciate when an accused person accepts responsibility, addresses the causes of their behaviour and does their best to repair the harm that was done.