Criminal legal questions

Using restorative justice as an alternative to the criminal legal system

I bridge my experience creating restorative justice programming with deep knowledge of the criminal legal system. I work with all parties to create meaningful responses that push the legal system to shift its approach and reduce its imprint. 

Sample offerings

  • Advising agencies on policy:
    I can assist agencies in creating policies that protect the integrity of the process on issues ranging from confidentiality to consent, admissions of wrongdoing, and more; I work at the strategic level and on the ground, helping to determine the risks and benefits across different points of entry within the system.

  • Piloting complex cases:
    I facilitate cases of homicide, sexual or domestic violence, or other types of complex harm, or in areas of the legal system that may be new for a particular jurisdiction.

  • Consulting, mentoring, guiding:
    Assisting practitioners and attorneys to think through the opportunities or limitations of difficult criminal cases.

Testimonials

  • Missing from criminal justice is to be able to have that dialogue with the other person… Restorative justice really helped me realize it wasn’t just about me and what my family has lost, it was also about that person and what I could give them at the end.

    Participant – Homicide

  • It helps you grow and learn and to acknowledge your mistakes. It also helps you move on with life in a positive way.

    Participant – Homicide

  • It’s a second chance to do the right thing.

    Participant – Homicide

  • I had the privilege of working closely with Erika Sasson during my time at the Manhattan DA's office. Erika's dedication and expertise were truly invaluable. She played a pivotal role in developing a comprehensive strategic plan for restorative justice initiatives, showcasing her visionary leadership in this area. Her ability to handle complex and serious cases with the utmost diligence, while being mindful of the needs of various stakeholders, was impressive and greatly contributed to successful and meaningful outcomes.

    Sherene Crawford

    Former Chief of the Pathways to Public Safety Division at the Manhattan DA's office