system. Research has shown that minorities do fare less often under alternative dispute resolution, including peacemaking circles. So when borrowing these practices, people need to make sure that the protection of rights is issued (Ulrich, 1999, p.429-430). Bazemore, (2000, p.279) stated the fact that another problem that can arise with circles and the restorative justice movement was in reintegration. He stated that in some cases reintegration will be attempted, but many offenders were never given the chance to become integrated in the first place. In his example he used juveniles, but I also feel that it can be connected to all offenders. What is the purpose of peacemaking circles and are they effective?The idea of borrowing tribal methods and using them in non-tribal communities has received praise for various reasons. Support has been given because the process fosters responsibility of the offender towards the victim, along with this support towards the both of them. Circles have also resulted in the increase of safety felt by the victim along with lowering of recidivism rates (Ulrich, 1999, p. 432). When we discuss the effectiveness of sentencing circles, it's clear that it's discussed in the terms of restorative justice. The goals that include victims' rights, restoration, and satisfaction of the victim, will be met differently in each individual case. When looking at its effectiveness the clear goal is to improve on the current criminal model of punishment (LaPrairie, 1995, p.86). One of the most important purposes behind sentencing circles regards the reduction of recidivism rates. Judge Stuart from the Yukon project in Canada has dealt with over 400 circle sentences of aboriginal and mixed clients. He concluded that 50% of the offenders have re-offended. Unfortunately, with circles being a family and community based program, the idea of an in depth study of the effectiveness of circles has not been successfully acc...
