Building Accountability Through Restorative Justice: A Powerful Conversation at Fairfax County JDR Court

On July 17, NVMS had the honor of joining Chief Judge Thomas P. Sotelo at the Fairfax County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court for an inspiring conversation about the vital role of restorative justice in supporting young people and strengthening our community.

Judge Sotelo welcomed everyone with genuine warmth and honesty. He didn’t just share his insights from the judge’s bench; he also spoke personally about his views on community and accountability, as well as how his own background, including his Filipino father’s service in the Philippine Army, has shaped his understanding of restorative justice. He offered powerful reflections on judicial leadership, hope, and the path to redemption.

Throughout the discussion, Judge Sotelo emphasized the importance of community ideals, the science of hope, and the strength that comes from active engagement from the court: “Are my ears hearing? Are my eyes seeing? Are my words finding meaning?” He used these questions to highlight the full and deep meaning of restorative justice – a process that truly listens, understands, and seeks to heal.

The event brought together young people from Fairfax County who are keen to become future restorative justice conference facilitators and community youth leaders. This diverse group included Fairfax County Police cadets, our NVMS interns, the Randy Jones Toll Fellows (who recently completed their restorative justice training), and other youth connected with Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services. Their presence underscored the future potential of restorative justice in our community.

Judge Sotelo wrapped up the afternoon with a personal courtroom tour and individual conversations with participants. Following this, NVMS staff presented certificates of completion for the Restorative Justice Training Program to the Randy Jones Toll Fellows, honoring their dedication to restorative justice and their promising role as future leaders in fostering a more connected and compassionate community.