Restorative Justice (YCJA and GAMP)
We believe that everybody has the potential to repair the damages caused and to rebuild the relationships between the individuals involved as well as the community. We are mandated under the laws of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), the General Alternative Measures Program (GAMP) for adults and the application of the Quebec Code of Penal Procedure.
A fair experience while respecting differences
Restorative justice is a way to repair the damages caused to both the victim and the community. The restorative justice process gives everyone the opportunity to participate in an open and respectful environment.
By promoting equitable justice, network members listen, accompany and support the parties involved in the reparation process.
Our mediating services are mandated under the following:
- The management and enforcement of the laws of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA);
- Management and implementation of the General Alternative Measures Program (GAMP) for adults;
- The management and application of compensatory work measures provided for adolescents (14 to 17) on the Quebec Code of Penal Procedure.
Youth Criminal Justice
When an offense is committed by an adolescent, there are suitable measures that allow him to repair the harm caused by his act. Équijustice proceeds to their implementation with respect and fairness. This process takes place under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA).
The role of Équijustice
Équijustice accompanies young offenders, their parents, victims and their parents (if they are young), in the chosen reparation process.
There are three restorative measures:
Reparation to the victim
Adolescents can repair the damage caused by their acts towards the victim by engaging in mediation, paying them financial compensation, writing them a letter of apology, etc.
The victim is consulted beforehand: that person can participate in the process if they wish.
Reparation within the community
Adolescents can get involved in the community by helping, by providing their skills and abilities to an organization or by paying them money.
Self-awareness activity
The adolescent may be invited to reflect on the reasons and the consequences of his act, with the help of a counselor.
Have any questions?
Locate an Équijustice near you.
The General Alternative Measures Program - allow an adult to repair his gesture
The General Alternative Measures Program is a diversion program, focused on repairing harm caused to victims and the community. This restorative justice program aims to be fair, in the sense that it considers the needs of both, victims and accused. Équijustice supervises these measures and makes sure to support them in the implementation of these.
Objectives of the program
Victim’s involvement
Repairing wrongdoings
Self-awareness activity
Roles of partners
Ministry of Justice (Quebec)
Designer of the General Alternative Measures Program (GAMP)
Director of criminal and penal prosecutions
Determine the accused's eligibility for the program and make the necessary representations before the court
Crime victims assisant centre
Provides front-line services to anyone who is the victim of a crime
Ministry of Public Security (Quebec)
The Correctional Services of Quebec verify the accused's eligibility for the GAMP: recognition of his responsibility and his willingness to collaborate in alternative measures
Équipe Vi-J
A Laval University research team which accompanies the program in its development
Alternative measures administered by Équijustice
Reparation to the victim
Reparation made to the community
Awareness activity for the accused
Offenders
Have you been admitted to a program and you have accepted to participate? Équijustice will be in attendance to ensure the process run smoothly.
Listen
Your point of view will be considered so that your commitment to the victim or to your community is related to the meaning of reparation for you.
Accompany
Équijustice will accompany you throughout the process of your measure. Your skills and motivation will contribute to its success.
Support
We will be at your side by putting at the partner organization at your disposal that collaborate with us and we will facilitate your approach by our availability.
You can find the details on the website of the Ministère de la Justice du Québec
Victims
As a first step, you will be contacted by a Crime and Victims Assistance Center (CAVAC). A member of their staff will inform you about the GAMP and will see with you if you wish to obtain information on a possible verbal exchange with the accused. If you agree to participate, Équijustice will facilitate this verbal exchange respecting the rights and differences of each.
Listen
We will create a time for your expectations and concerns to be considered for the steps that will be taken.
Accompany
The reasons you have chosen to commit to this process and the expectations you seek to satisfy will be at the center of our work.
Support
Our role would be to organize respectful and safe verbal exchanges. Our total support will be offered throughout this process.
You can find the details on the website of the Ministère de la Justice du Québec
Compensatory Work for Youth (14-17 years old) – Moving the community forward
It is sometimes difficult, if not impossible, to pay a fine for an offense. The Compensatory Work Program exists for this reason.
Under the Quebec Code of Criminal Procedure, youth between the ages of 14 and 17 must work unpaid hours with a community organization to pay off their fines. The youth will meet with a Youth worker who will help place them at a community organization based on their interests and skills.