This book develops a theory of punishment based on the view that the central function of law is to reduce justified recourse to violence in the resolution of disputes. Understanding the implications of this for coercing compliance with the law allows the construction of a theory of punishment built on principles common to policing, adjudication, sentencing, and corrections. The proposed conflict resolution model of sentencing requires that sentences reflect the offence and that sentences be individualized to reflect the needs of the victim, the wider public, and the offender. Under this model, the legal system seeks non-destructive solutions to the problems criminal activity creates.

Source: Vanspauwen, K., Robert, L., Aertsen, I., Parmentier, S. (2003), Restorative Justice and Restorative Detention. A selected and annotated bibliography. Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Faculteit Rechtsgeleerdheid, Onderzoeksgroep Penologie en Victimologie.