Advocates of restorative justice question the state's ability to deliver satisfactory justice to the community, both in criminal and other cases. This collaborative 2001 volume looks at the burgeoning restorative justice movement and considers the relationship between restorative justice and civil society, examining debates and exploring ideas about who should 'control' restorative justice, the state or civil society. A diverse range of chapters, written by leaders in the field, engage with different aspects of restorative justice. Genuinely international, the book addresses aspects of civil society including schools, families, churches and private workplaces, the women's movement, victims of crime and indigenous groups. It also considers broader issues such as democracy, human rights, access and equity. A dynamic and provocative volume, this book attempts to bring the ideals of restorative justice to life so that victims, offenders, their families and communities have more of a say in the justice process.

'Mediation, community conferencing and victim impact statements all come under the rubric of restorative justice, an idea whose time has well and truly come. This book is thought-provoking reading for anyone with even a passing interest in alternative dispute resolution.' Law Institute Journal
'The editors of this volume (who have done much to advocate and implement restorative justice arrangements in Australia) are to be commended both for their balanced introduction, and for bringing together a diverse range of contributors including zealots and sceptics.' Law Society Journal
'The issues addressed in Restorative Justice and Civil Society go to the heart of how we think ab out crime, justice, the citizen and the state … a thought-provoking collection of essays.' Irish Jurist