Abstract
While most victim compensation schemes dwell on the situa tion of the victim, the use of restitution within criminal justice systems is comparatively unexplored. This concept may have rehabilitative potential for offenders, but before the potential can be realized a number of issues must be resolved: Should the aim be complete restitution or partial, symbolic restitution? Can restitution be more effective as a rehabilitative measure if it is required or if it is made voluntarily? What would be the effect of personal victim-offender interaction within a restitution scheme? Should the offender be held responsible for making restitution in crimes that were clearly victim-precipitated? These issues are considered and suggestions are made for their resolution.
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