Debtors' prison

A debtor’s prison was a place where individuals who owed money could be detained until they paid their debt or negotiated a settlement. Historically, if someone couldn’t pay their debts, courts might imprison them as a way to compel payment. Modern legal systems generally prohibit imprisoning people solely for unpaid debts, recognizing that inability to pay is not a crime but often a financial hardship. Today, debt collection is handled through civil procedures, and debtor’s prisons are largely abolished, though debt-related issues can still lead to legal consequences.