Restitution is the money a judge orders the offender to pay to the victim to compensate the victim for losses suffered as a result of the crime. Restitution is part of the offender's sentence or disposition and can be ordered in both adult and juvenile cases after the offender is found guilty or pleads guilty. The amount of restitution ordered by the judge depends on the victim's crime-related expenses and the offender's ability to pay.
Who can Request Restitution?
Victims with out-of-pocket losses resulting from a crime may request restitution. Organizations such as churches, schools, businesses, or government agencies may also be eligible if they sustained a loss due to crime.