What is the main purpose of Victim Impact Panels in relation to crime?

Victim Impact Panels serve an important role in the criminal justice system by promoting accountability among offenders. These panels present an opportunity for victims of crime to share their personal stories and the impact that the crime had on their lives. By hearing these firsthand accounts, offenders gain a deeper understanding of the consequences of their actions, not only for the victims but also for their families and the wider community.

This process encourages the offender to take responsibility for their actions, recognizing the harm caused and fostering a sense of accountability. It is a critical component of restorative justice, which aims to repair the harm caused by criminal behavior rather than solely punishing the offender. Victim Impact Panels highlight the real-world effects of crime, reinforcing the idea that actions have consequences and encouraging offenders to reflect on their behavior in a more meaningful way.

The other options, while beneficial in various contexts, do not encapsulate the primary function of these panels. Legal advice is not a focus of the panels; rather, they are designed for personal testimony and impact sharing. Community service may be encouraged as part of an offender’s rehabilitation but is not the main purpose of the panels. Facilitating rehabilitation is a broader concept, and while Victim Impact Panels can contribute to an offender's rehabilitation process, the