2016 Delaware Code
Title 11 - Crimes and Criminal Procedure
CHAPTER 95. VICTIM-OFFENDER MEDIATION
§ 9501. Purpose.

(a) The General Assembly finds and declares that:

(1) The resolution of felony, misdemeanor and juvenile delinquent disputes can be costly and complex in a judicial setting where the parties involved are necessarily in an adversary posture and subject to formalized procedures; and

(2) Victim-offender mediation programs can meet the needs of Delaware's citizens by providing forums in which persons may voluntarily participate in the resolution of certain criminal offenses in an informal and less adversarial atmosphere.

(b) It is the intent of the General Assembly that each program established pursuant to this chapter:

(1) Stimulate the establishment and use of victim-offender mediation programs to help meet the need for alternatives to the courts for the resolution of certain criminal offenses, whether before or after adjudication;

(2) Encourage continuing community participation in the development, administration and oversight of local victim-offender mediation programs;

(3) Offer structures for victim-offender mediation which may serve as models for programs in other communities; and

(4) Serve a specific community or locale and resolve certain criminal offenses that arise within that community or locale.

70 Del. Laws, c. 444, § 1.;