Criminal Convictions May Come With Victim Obligations
If you have been charged with a crime, you may already realize how harsh the punishments can be with a conviction. Along with the usual jail time and fines, however, there is another way to impose penalties on those convicted of crimes. Read on and find out more about victim restitution.
Attending to Victims
The justice system has expanded its reach to cover providing victims with monetary compensation. Regardless of the crime, if you are convicted, you might be ordered to pay restitution. The people and groups eligible for remuneration can vary depending on the circumstance but may include:
- Businesses — There is no such thing as a victimless crime, and even business interests can be victims. If you perpetrate fraud or theft, you may have to pay the price in the form of punishment and restitution on top of that punishment. This form of restitution is more common than others and has been around for many years. Private businesses and governmental agencies and entities are in this category.
- Direct Victims — This includes the payment of some forms of damages that can be similar to that gained in a personal injury lawsuit. Victims may be provided restitution to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
- Family Members of the Victim — Those who are affected by a victim's losses may also be due restitution. While family members may be in line for certain types of compensation when a victim dies, they may also be paid if they can show they lost companionship or a parent.
- Reimbursement — In many cases, crimes that result in injuries can rack up thousands in medical bills. Whether the victim was covered by health insurance or not, medical facilities and health insurance plans may seek restitution to cover losses.
Coverage of Losses
Several areas of loss are considered when deciding on victim restitution, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Burial expenses
- Law enforcement costs associated with the crime
- Education funds for the children of a victim
- Lost wages
- Loss from theft and fraud
- Payment for counseling for a victim
Don't Pay the Price
No matter how you may feel personally about victim restitution, you may not be responsible for paying it. This is another form of punishment you can avoid if you are found innocent of the charges and why those charged with crimes must seek help from a criminal defense lawyer. Even if you end up being convicted, a lawyer may make all the difference in the amount of restitution ordered and the way it has to be paid. Speak to a lawyer about your arrest right away.