Why do I have to pay restitution?

For Juveniles

With the passage of Act 33 in 1995, Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Act was amended and the mission of Pennsylvania’s juvenile justice system was redefined to include the goals of Balanced and Restorative Justice. Under these principles, juveniles have an obligation to repair what they have harmed. One way to repair damage is by reimbursing the victim for financial losses suffered because of criminal behavior. Losses may include property, medical bills, home/car repairs, insurance deductibles, etc. Paying restitution is a way of taking responsibility, and a way to try to right the wrong.

For Adults

These amounts are ordered by the Court at time of sentencing, thereby requiring payment on these amounts in full. Monthly payment plans are required and payments must be made completely and consistently to ensure compliance.

Show All Answers

1. Why do I have to pay restitution?
2. How is the amount of restitution determined?
3. What if I disagree with the amount of restitution I am ordered to pay?
4. Can I pay my victims directly?
5. What about other fines, costs, and / or fees?
6. Where can the balance of court ordered fines, court costs, and restitution be found?
7. How can I make payments?
8. When should I begin to make payments and when are payments due?
9. What is a Judgment?
10. What will happen if I do not make payments as directed?
11. What if I bounce a check for my fines, court costs restitution?
12. What will happen if I move, get a new phone number, or change my employment?
13. How can I get detailed copies of all my case balances or the payments made to date?
14. I am owed court-ordered restitution but have not been receiving payments; who can help?
15. My license is suspended. Now what?
16. If I am unable to comply with my payment plan due to medical reasons, what should I do?
17. If I am in jail, what happens to my payment plan?
18. I'm a juvenile. What do I do about paying restitution?