Restitution is a punishment given out in criminal cases when a defendant has unlawfully benefitted from someone else’s economic loss. When a defendant is ordered to pay restitution, they must make a payment to the victims to restore their financial status. Examples of this would be providing reimbursement for stolen property or medical bills incurred as the result of assault and battery.
Factors that Determine Restitution
If you are sentenced with either a fine or a restitution, the amount you will be instructed to pay is based a number of factors. Those factors include:
- Kind of crime they committed
- Crime severity
- Defendant’s criminal history
- State sentencing minimums or maximums
It’s also important to realize that if you are sentenced for a crime in any capacity, even if you have to make restitution payments, will result in you receiving a criminal record. That’s why it’s crucial to devise a defense strategy with an experienced criminal lawyer.
Restitutions Can Be Costly
Although a fine or restitution may seem inconsequential compared to a jail sentence, both restitution and a fine can turn out to be quite costly. Often restitution payments end up in creating a significant financial burden for a defendant and their family. If you are facing a potential criminal conviction, rely on a criminal lawyer to help craft a criminal defense. A defense attorney will improve your chances of getting a reduced sentence or having the charges dismissed.
