Procedural Justice – The Four Key Principles

According to procedural justice theory, if people feel they are treated in a procedurally fair and just way, starting from the very first contact, they will view those in authority as more legitimate and respect them more. They are more likely to comply and engage, even when the outcomes of the decisions or processes are unfavourable or inconvenient.

Research from different settings, shows how procedural justice influences people’s respect for, and compliance with, rules and authority. Service users have stated that they value officers who are respectful, non-judgemental, consistent, fair and accountable.

Research from across settings shows how procedural justice can be put into practice. Specific examples are as follows:

offering people the chance to ask questions and responding appropriately to these questions
explaining how processes work and why
explaining how decisions are made before a procedure starts and what is considered
making sure people have a chance to ‘tell their story’
explaining reasons behind decisions
making a conscious effort to be approachable
encouraging people in their efforts to change and succeed
asking how procedures and treatment could be developed.

There are obvious areas of overlap between procedural justice and the research relating to desistance and supervision skills. For example, the need to develop positive practitioner/service user relationships which are supportive but challenging when necessary, with appropriate disclosure. The importance of user voice is another constant theme. Service users report that they value being listened to, and for their probation officer to take the time to recognise them as an individual, demonstrate empathy and show a genuine concern for their wellbeing. Service users then feel more able to open up and talk.