ce system targets either the crime or criminal, rarely is there the information or inclination to explore the underlying causes of crime. In failing to appreciate the causes of crime, specifically the causes of the offenders conduct, the sentence may foster recidivism by worsening the very conditions generating the dysfunctional behavior, and may exacerbate conflicts within the community generally, and specifically between the victim and the offender. Little if any constructive change has occurred in the conditions or conflicts, or suffering within the communities as a consequence of jail sentences, fines, or probation orders indiscriminately hurled at offenders by the courts.(Stuart,1993,1)The casual linkage between the offenders criminal activity and their social, economic, emotional and domestic circumstances are, if examined at all, only superficially addressed and then principally assess what mitigating or aggravating influence the offenders personal history might have in imposing punishment. In failing to examine the underlying conditions causing criminal behavior or in assessing what specific needs must be addressed to rehabilitate the offender, there can be but little wonder why the courts do a booming business in repeat customers.(Stuart,1993,13)The aim of a sentencing circle is to shift the process of sentencing away from punishment to rehabilitation and responsibility. It provides a new alternative for courts to incarceration. Most importantly, the circle provides an opportunity to start a healing process for both the offender and the victim. The offender is presented with the impact of their actions in front of respected community members, elders, peers, family, the victim and their family, stimulating an opportunity for real change.Its main objectives are to enhance information and sentencing options, to provide a greater concern for impact of the crime on the victim, to shift the focus of the hearing from punishment to re...
