Restorative Justice Reflection Paper

Placed at the Office for Policy and Planning for New York State Courts, a problem-solving court, its mission revolves around the concept of restorative justice. Restorative justice is a theory that places emphasis on fixing the relationship between offenders and the community. By using this theory the Office of Policy and Planning looks to increase the efficiency at which courts handle cases. With New Yorks vast judicial system, there are times where offenders and victims feel as if they are stuck in a long and grueling process. Problem-solving courts make the court process easier by targeting the issues that bring offenders into the system and attempt to solve them in order to prevent recidivism. Overseeing courts, opening a line of communication, …show more content…
As a junior, majoring in Law and Society, OPP would be one of my first internships that would allow for a direct application of everything that I have been learning. Having taken many classes involving restorative justice, this internship would allow classroom material to come to life. I would be able to understand and the see the impact restorative justice has on the lives of people compared to a punishment driven justice system. Not having heard of problem-solving courts before, I am excited that this internship gives me an opportunity to see the options available for someone obtaining a B.A degree in Law and Society. I would be able to not just focus on the law-on-books but see how the law affects society. Being able to go on site visits to see the legal field in action would be a great way for me to also reaffirm my decision of going to law school. After speaking to Sky Davis, I was able to find out about future internship options that would permit me to use the skills I have learned while obtaining my Certificate in Dispute Resolution. Considering working in the District Attorneys Office after graduating from law school, this opportunity would allow me to get a taste of what its like to work in the public sector and see if it is a good fit for me. Working with fellow co-workers, who have worked many years devoting their lives to making a difference in peoples lives, could help …show more content…
Pena-Davis. Sky Davis is a Regional Project Manager at OPP, with 20 years of experience in addictions and criminal justice. She uses her experience to assist people in drug and veteran courts. Previously, Sky Davis has worked at the Center for Court Innovations and New York City Treatment Alternatives for Safer Communities. Not only does she support people with addictions but she also is a speaker on the topic and is a part of many committees, associations, and advisory boards. Sky Davis received her bachelor’s degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and her master’s degree from Long Island University/CW Post