What is Victim/Offender Dialogue?
- Victim/Offender Dialogue (VOD) is a victim-centered, confidential meeting between a victim/survivor and the offender who committed the crime against them, or in some cases, against the immediate family member.
- The experience of interacting with the offender in a safe setting provides the victim/survivor a full voice to express the pain and trauma they have endured. The objective is for the victim/survivor to be heard and to gain answers and information only the offender can provide.
- When offenders listen and understand the complexity of feelings about the harm they caused and take responsibility, they can better grasp the devastating effects of their actions.
- The process is not about forgiveness, compromise or reconciliation. While forgiveness may occur, that decision is left entirely to the victim/survivor.
How Does the VOD Process Work?
- A victim/survivor initiates a VOD request through the NCDAC Victim Support Services office. If staff recommendations are favorable and the offender agrees, the VOD is assigned to a trained facilitator. The facilitator meets regularly, usually monthly, with the victim/survivor and the offender separately over several months.
- The VOD process is voluntary, and any participant may choose to stop at any time. Participation in preparation does not guarantee a dialogue will occur. When the facilitator and participants are ready. a VOD meeting is scheduled at the facility where the offender is located.
Download the Victim Offender Dialogue Brochure here.
More about VOD
Tab/Accordion Items
The victim/survivor must initiate the process by calling, writing or emailing the NCDAC Victim Support Services office. Offenders cannot initiate a VOD.
Yes, participation is voluntary. Any participant may decide to discontinue the VOD process at any time. Offenders rarely choose to stop the process once they have agreed to participate. However, victims/survivors sometimes process their feelings during the preparation phase and determine that they no longer need to move forward with VOD.
No, participation does not affect an offender's sentence, parole or any status of incarceration. Offenders receive no tangible benefits or special privileges for participating in a VOD.
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