Canadian Circle Sentencing

Canadian circle sentencing is a community-based justice process designed primarily for Indigenous offenders. It involves a circle of community members, including elders, family, and leaders, who collectively discuss the offender’s actions, its impact, and appropriate consequences. The goal is to promote accountability, healing, and reintegration, respecting cultural traditions and values. Unlike traditional court sentences, circle sentencing emphasizes offender responsibility, community involvement, and restorative justice principles, aiming to address root causes of crime and support offenders in making positive changes within their communities.