The Joint Justice Oversight meeting held on November 21, 2024, focused on critical discussions surrounding victims' rights and the role of the Attorney General's office in shaping policies for restorative justice in Vermont.

One of the primary topics addressed was the need for a manual to be created by the Attorney General's office. This manual is intended to inform victims of their rights and guide service providers in delivering this information effectively. Key provisions discussed include timely notifications to victims regarding pre and post-charge diversion referrals, as well as invitations for victims to participate in restorative processes. The legislation aims to ensure that victims are kept informed about the conditions of restorative justice agreements and any progress made, while also addressing privacy concerns.

The conversation also highlighted the issue of geographic equity in the application of these policies. Initially, the Attorney General's office was mandated to create a policy that individual state's attorneys would adopt. However, concerns were raised about the constitutionality of mandating actions for these elected officials, who possess prosecutorial discretion. This led to a robust discussion about the balance of power between statewide offices and locally elected officials.

Participants in the meeting questioned the effectiveness of having a Department of State's Attorneys and Sheriffs, suggesting that there may be a need for clearer policies that can be adapted at the local level. The dialogue underscored the complexities of implementing statewide policies while respecting the autonomy of local prosecutors.

Overall, the meeting emphasized the ongoing efforts to enhance victims' rights and the challenges of ensuring equitable justice practices across Vermont. The next steps will likely involve further discussions on how to balance these interests while maintaining the integrity of local prosecutorial discretion.