In legal terms, what does the act of 'rehabilitation' primarily focus on?

The act of 'rehabilitation' in legal terms primarily focuses on the restoration of rights and responsibilities. This concept is tied to the notion that individuals who have committed offenses should have the opportunity to reintegrate into society after serving their penalties, rather than being permanently stigmatized or marginalized. Rehabilitation emphasizes the process of helping offenders to reinstate their civil rights and responsibilities, allowing them to return to productive participation in their communities.

The underlying philosophy is rooted in the belief that people can change and that effective rehabilitation can lead to reduced recidivism, ultimately benefiting both the individual and society. By focusing on rehabilitation, the legal system aims to provide support and resources that help individuals address underlying issues, such as addiction or lack of education, that may have contributed to their criminal behavior. This stands in contrast to simply punishing offenders or implementing preventive measures without addressing their underlying needs.