KINGSTON, Jamaica — A family is to attend at least one restorative justice session after appearing in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday.

Two complainants were listed in the matter: a mother and her 16-year-old son.

The accused, who is facing charges of assault occasioning bodily harm, is the child’s father.

Explaining that her son was unwilling to miss school to appear in court, the mother shared, “He said mommy, I am focusing on CXC and my skills.”

The mom said his unwillingness was exacerbated by the fact that the relationship between himself and his father had improved and there had not been any hitting for some time.

Acknowledging the child’s well-placed focus, Judge Paula Blake Powell nevertheless encouraged the family to attend at least one restorative justice session, citing “father wounds” that can follow grown men into adulthood.

The family agreed to one session where the child’s schooling will not be affected. They are to return to court on December 17th.

— Dana Malcolm