Restorative Justice Privilege Bill Becomes Law In Illinois

A new law prevents statements made by participants in restorative justice programs from being used in court.

By Andrea Guthmann
Cook County Courthouse
Cook County's Leighton Criminal Courts building on Chicago's southwest side could soon reopen to jury trials after they were put on hold last year due to the pandemic. Andrew Gill / WBEZ
Cook County Courthouse
Cook County's Leighton Criminal Courts building on Chicago's southwest side could soon reopen to jury trials after they were put on hold last year due to the pandemic. Andrew Gill / WBEZ

Restorative Justice Privilege Bill Becomes Law In Illinois

A new law prevents statements made by participants in restorative justice programs from being used in court.

By Andrea Guthmann
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Supporters of the restorative justice movement say it’s a better alternative to dealing with crime by focusing on healing instead of punishment. Last week, Gov. JB Pritzker gave the restorative justice movement a big boost, making it illegal to use statements or actions made during restorative justice sessions in court.

Reset hears about the potentials and challenges of restorative justice.

GUESTS: State Sen. Robert Peters, 13th district

Matthew Simon, former president of Catholic Lawyers Guild