A different path to resolution.
A structured process that gives the people affected by a criminal matter or serious conflict the chance to be heard, to ask the questions that matter to them, and to reach an outcome no court can deliver.
More than a legal outcome.
When harm has been caused - through a criminal act, a serious conflict, or a breach of trust - the legal process often leaves everyone feeling unheard. Restorative justice conferencing takes a different approach.
It brings together the person who experienced the harm and the person responsible, in a structured and carefully facilitated setting, to have an honest conversation about what happened, what the impact has been, and what can be done from here. The process is voluntary. It's led by an accredited facilitator. And it focuses on outcomes that matter to the people involved, not only to the legal system.
It isn't therapy, and it isn't soft. People often arrive expecting something touchy-feely and are surprised to find it's nothing of the sort. What it is, is real - and for many people, talking openly about what happened turns out to be more useful than they expected. Some find it quite therapeutic.
Two sides of the same conversation.
For the person who was harmed
- A chance to be heard, on your terms
- Space to ask the questions only the other person can answer
- Acknowledgement of the impact it has had
- A say in what a fair outcome looks like
For the person responsible
- An opportunity to take genuine responsibility
- A way to address the harm directly, not just legally
- A chance to show a court the matter has been taken seriously
- A step toward moving forward without it defining your life
Most clients are referred by their lawyer. Lauren works comfortably alongside legal representatives and understands the legal context from the inside.
It isn't for every situation - and that's the point.
Restorative justice only works when the person responsible is genuinely willing to accept responsibility for what they did and for the impact it had. If someone disputes their involvement, takes issue with their guilt, or wants to shift the blame onto the other party, it isn't the right process - and Lauren will tell you so honestly. Knowing when it won't work is part of doing it well.
What to expect, step by step.
The first conversation
Lauren speaks with each party privately. No pressure, no obligation.
Preparation
Individual meetings to get ready, so no one walks in cold.
The conference
A structured, facilitated conversation where everyone is comfortable and clear on what's happening.
Agreed outcomes
Documented where an agreement is reached, with follow-up support available.
Legal experience meets restorative practice.
Lauren brings a rare combination to every matter she facilitates: deep criminal law experience and restorative justice training. Two decades in the Queensland criminal justice system - including as a Director of one of Queensland's leading criminal law firms - means she understands these matters from the inside, and she's spent years learning to read people and adapt her approach to whoever is in front of her.
Nationally Accredited Mediator · Resolution Institute Member · Two decades in criminal law · Former law firm Director
Considering restorative justice conferencing?
The first step is a private conversation with Lauren. No obligation - just a clear, honest picture of whether it's right for your situation.