restitution orders

Restitution orders are court mandates requiring a defendant to compensate a victim for specific financial losses caused by their criminal activity. This can include costs like medical bills, property damage, or lost wages directly linked to the crime. The goal is to make the victim whole, rather than punish the offender. Restitution is separate from other penalties like fines or imprisonment and is based on proven expenses that resulted from the crime. Courts determine the amount and enforce timely payment, helping restore the victim and address the impact of the crime.