Criminal Procedure
Restitution
Court-ordered payment to compensate victims for losses caused by criminal conduct.
Governing rule: 18 U.S.C. § 3663A
Plain-English definition
Restitution is not a fine paid to the government; it is payment directed to victims. In federal cases, restitution can be mandatory for certain offenses and may survive long after imprisonment or supervision ends. The amount can be heavily contested.
How it works
Courts rely on victim loss information, the presentence report, party objections, and sometimes hearings to determine restitution.
Why it matters
Restitution turns criminal sentencing into a financial judgment that can follow a person for years.
Related terms
More in Criminal Procedure
Allocution
A defendant’s opportunity to speak directly to the judge before sentence is imposed.
Arraignment
A criminal proceeding where charges are formally read or presented and the defendant enters an initial plea.
Bail
Release before trial under conditions designed to assure appearance and protect the community.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
The constitutional proof standard the government must meet to convict a defendant of a crime.
Bond
A financial or secured promise tied to a defendant’s release and future court appearances.
Indictment
A formal criminal charging document issued by a grand jury after finding probable cause to accuse the defendant.
Information
A criminal charging document filed by a prosecutor without a grand jury indictment.
Plea Agreement
An agreement in which a criminal defendant pleads guilty under negotiated terms with the government.
Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.