Restitution is an important part of many criminal sentences in Florida. It means paying money to another party to cover their losses after the court deemed you committed a crime against them. If the courts have ordered you to pay restitution, you may have questions about how it works.
What is restitution?
Restitution is money that you must pay to the other person to compensate for the losses caused by your actions. This could include costs for property damage, medical bills, or other expenses related to the crime. The goal of restitution is to help make the survivor whole again by covering the financial impact of the crime.
How is the restitution amount decided?
The court decides the amount of restitution based on the survivor’s losses. The judge will look at the evidence provided, such as repair bills, medical costs, or other financial records. The amount should match the actual losses that the other person experienced because of the crime. It is not meant to be a fine or extra punishment, but rather a way to make up for what was lost.
When do you have to pay restitution?
The court will set a schedule for paying restitution. This can depend on your financial situation and ability to pay. Sometimes, the court may allow you to make monthly payments if you cannot pay the entire amount at once. It is important to follow the payment plan set by the court to avoid further penalties.
What happens if you cannot pay?
If you are unable to pay restitution, you need to let the court know. The court may be able to adjust your payment plan based on your current financial situation. However, failing to pay without any valid reason can lead to serious consequences, such as additional fines or even jail time. It’s important to communicate with the court if you are struggling to make payments.
Paying restitution is a key part of taking responsibility after a conviction. Understanding how the process works and keeping up with payments can help you move forward and avoid further legal trouble.
