Repairing the damage: citizen boards tailor sentences to fit the crimes in Vermont

Article Abstract:

An innovative criminal justice program, called restorative justice, has been used in Vermont since a 1995 federally funded pilot project. Nonviolent offenders accused of low-level felonies or misdemeanors choose whether to be sentenced by a judge or meet with members of the community in which the crime was committed. The recidivism rate is around 3% lower than for Vermont offenders in traditional probation. However, critics are concerned about the lack of uniformity in sentencing and the use of lay people for probation officers without experience or training.

Innovations, Laws, regulations and rules, Vermont, Restitution, Alternatives to imprisonment, Alternative sentencing, Community-based corrections

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More battles ahead over gay marriages: opponents seek to overturn Hawaii ruling with a constitutional amendment

Article Abstract:

Hawaii courts have resolved that the state's ban on same-sex marriages violates equal protection guarantees, but the battle for gay and lesbian equality on this issue is not over. Supporters of the decision will begin to work on overturning the Defense of Marriage Act to ensure that same-sex marriages will be recognized in other states. Gay rights opponents have called for an amendment to the Hawaii Constitution banning same-sex marriage. They have also charged state officials with deliberately botching their defense of the Hawaiian statute.

United States, Interpretation and construction, Cases, Discrimination against gays, Same-sex marriage, Hawaii, Marriage law

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Children's summit; ABA group debates agenda

Article Abstract:

The ABA Working Group on the Unmet Legal Needs of Children and Their Families hopes to focus on the problems of poor children and to develop proposals addressing the whole range of their needs from health care to juvenile justice. The group is debating whether to concentrate on securing more government funding for the legal representation of children or to encourage more pro bono work on their behalf.

Conferences, meetings and seminars, Legal assistance to children, Children's legal assistance

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