HB5588

Establishes Restorative Justice Community Courts in Illinois to resolve cases through restorative justice practices.

The Illinois Restorative Justice Community Court Act establishes restorative justice courts in Illinois to resolve eligible cases through voluntary, structured, community-based processes. These courts aim to repair harm, improve community safety, and reduce recidivism. Courts may contract with community-based providers and employ trained restorative justice facilitators. Eligibility is broadly construed to maximize access, with presumptive eligibility for misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies. Referral and admission require written consent from the defendant and approval from the court.