Find the Root, Fix the system
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Find the Root, Fix the system *
Reclaim your
options
ROOT Legal is a nonprofit public interest law firm and community organizing project that rebuts misconceptions around public safety through direct services, mediation, and research.
Why We Exist.
ROOT Legal aims to rebut misconceptions around public safety by truly listening to the wishes of victims of crime—since they know best what justice means to them. Through legal representation, mediation, and community support, we aim to address notoriously low satisfaction rates with the criminal justice system among victims by providing options that empower victims, defendants, and communities to confront the actual root causes of harm. Rather than seeking punitive measures that our clients do not desire and which often lead to further pain for all involved, we aim to facilitate victims’ unique visions for justice, giving communities the tools they need to create meaningful and lasting change.
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In the criminal justice system, the language we use is crucial. Terms like “victim" and “offender" can be overly simplistic and potentially harmful, reinforcing negative identities that hinder healing and growth. We aim to thoughtfully employ alternative terms while acknowledging that “victim" and “offender" are still commonly used. Our focus is to frame and use these labels strictly in the context of their technical, legal definitions, ensuring they do not define the inherent worth of individuals involved. By doing so, we strive to foster a more compassionate understanding of all parties and promote healing rather than stigma.
Options we can take together
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Options we can take together *
Research and Data
Collect data to analyze community needs, assess experiences, identify inequalities, and gather feedback, all while focusing on healing and addressing the root causes of interpersonal harm.
Transformative Solutions
We prioritize mediation, services, and community support to address the root causes of crime, shifting the focus from punishment to healing and decarceration.
Legal Representation
Legal representation for court-designated victims of crime, offering support in navigating the legal system, understanding rights, seeking their version of justice, and ensuring privacy and safety.
Be Part of the option to reclaim justice today
Support our mission by contributing a donation.