Victim-Offender Dialogue
A facilitated dialogue, on the survivor's terms.
Restorative justice is a process that gives crime victims a structured, safe way to be heard, ask questions, and find a path forward on their own terms.
Victim-Offender Dialogue is a facilitated conversation between the victim or survivor of a violent crime and the person who harmed them. It is a victim-centered restorative justice process — separate from the justice system.
Is this for me?
If you have questions only the person who harmed you can answer — or if you need them to hear what their actions did to your life — this process was built for you.
You are in control of every step. You set the pace. You can stop at any time. Nothing happens without your consent.
Why people seek this dialogue
In their own words — survivors who have walked this path.
"WHY did this happen to me? To my loved one?
"I have important questions that only the offender can answer.
"I want to know whether they are truly sorry or not.
"I need them to know how they have impacted my life.
"I've never received an apology.
"In court, the offender never even looked me in the eye.
What the process looks like
- 1
The victim initiates
Offenders cannot initiate. The process always begins with the victim or survivor.
- 2
All parties agree to participate
Participation must be voluntary for everyone involved.
- 3
Offender accountability is required
The offender must take accountability. Facilitators assess readiness with the supervising agency.
- 4
Separate screening and preparation
Facilitators meet separately with each party to prepare carefully.
- 5
Take as long as needed
The victim or survivor sets the pace and may change their mind at any time.
- 6
A one-time facilitated dialogue
When ready, a single dialogue takes place in a safe, structured environment.
- 7
Alternatives are available
Written letters or surrogate offender dialogues are options when direct dialogue is not.
Eligibility
Eligible crimes include those listed in the Colorado Victim Rights Amendment: murder, manslaughter, homicide, vehicular homicide, assault, and robbery.
This dialogue is currently not available for sexual crimes or domestic violence cases.
If your case is not currently eligible, please reach out. We can help connect you with other resources and support.
What this dialogue is — and what it is not
It is
- Victim-Initiated
- Voluntary for Everyone
- Accountability-Focused
- A Facilitated Process
- Honest and Respectful
It is not
- Offender-Initiated
- A Legal Process
- Mandated or Compelled
- Forgiveness-Focused
- Mediation or Diversion
Contact us to start the process
Reach out directly to one of our facilitators or to the appropriate agency contact.
Angela Cummings
Colorado State Department of Corrections Contact