After reviewing the four theories of justice, as well as applying the theories to the Vanessa Pham case, I believe the best one is the parallel justice model. The parallel theory works best for this particular crime because it allows the victims to receive counsel and other assistance they may need but not found under the other justice models (Newmark, 2017b). The retributive justice model focuses too much on punishing Blanco-Garcia, and is not concerned with the needs of Pham’s friends and family, who are now secondary-victims Newmark, 2017b). Consequently, this may result in them being further victimized during the process (Newmark, 2017d). The utilitarian model is also ‘offender-focused,’ and is not entirely concerned with the help Pham’s family and friends might need because of her murder. Moreover, the utilitarian model also might not deter Blanco-Garcia, or another individual, from …show more content…
While the restorative model is more ideal compared to the previous two, it still might not be as productive as the parallel model. The restorative justice model in theory focuses on both victims and offenders, but when practiced, the system might still pay more attention to Blanco-Garcia than the victims (Newmark, 2017c). Furthermore, the restorative model might not reach Pham’s case if Blanco-Garcia is an unwilling participant (Newmark, 2017c).
Although parallel justice does have some drawbacks, it does manage to meet the needs of all or most individuals affected by Pham’s murder. Some drawbacks concerning this model includes the significant amount of funding needed to be allocated for victims, and victims not completely being satisfied (Newmark, 2017b). While these drawbacks are something necessary to consider, the outcomes from using this model