Christie identifies two recurring themes in our legal system. First, that lawyers represent the individuals involved in the conflict. Second, that the victim is "so thoroughly represented by the state that she or he for most of the proceedings is pushed completely out of the arena." (p 3) Christie believes that disputes need to be returned to the parties involved, the victim and the offender. The victim is almost always given a nonessential role within the framework of the legal process. While it would be impossible for the system to operate without the cooperation of the victim, once they are no longer useful in the process, they are essentially left out. Resulting in the double victimization of the victim. First, there is the actual crime inflicted upon them. Second, there is the neglect and traumatization brought on by the legal process. In our current system, victims have very little rights compared to those of the offender. Christies provides an alternative that not only allows victims to regain their voice, but also gives them the ability to be part of the reparation process. .
There is no reason to think that Christie's view would resolve all the problems with the criminal justice system, nor would it bring about any sudden improvement. But we should realize that if used correctly, it could help change public opinion about the legal process and about the attitude of those involved in the process towards the victim. Further, Christie's view provides a means in which the victim can be a part of the resolution, which in turn could help bring about a change in how we handle punishment and seek remedies that have the victim's interests in mind. .
Offenders, particularly young offenders, often do not realize the extent of the crime they are committing or the consequences of their actions. These cases and the young people involved are complex, and the stories they tell change over time as they mature and reflect on them.