Samenvatting

Restorative justice offers an alternative approach to conflict resolution where those involved are given the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions and work together toward recovery as demonstrated in this horse breeders case. The mediation enabled the spouses to share their stories, take responsibility and work together for recovery. During the mediation, the spouses agreed upon seeking professional help to support them in processing the traumatic period behind them. Both had wanted to make amends much earlier, but because it ‘wasn’t allowed’, they didn’t dare. Both are really shocked by the impact of what happened on the other and also on each other. Their experience underscores the importance of restorative justice as a valuable alternative within the criminal justice context, where the emphasis is on recognition, recovery and shared solutions.