What is the difference between restitution and reparations?

Restitution is the financial responsibility of the defendant to the victim, and is only available if the defendant is convicted of a crime and the judge orders it be paid. It may only be ordered for expenses directly related to the crime, including property losses. 

Reparations are financial assistance from the government, and are available to victims of violent crime regardless of whether the case is charged or the offender is convicted; however, reparations are only available for violent crimes reported to law enforcement. 

More information is available from the Crime Victims Reparations Board. If a victim is identified in a criminal case, they will receive information by mail from the Victim Witness Coordinator that includes a restitution affidavit. If you need additional information about restitution or an application for reparations, contact the Victim Witness Coordinator.

Show All Answers

1. Can you provide me with legal advice?
2. I received a subpoena; what does it mean?
3. What happens if I do not respond to a subpoena?
4. I have responded to a subpoena; what can I expect in court?
5. I already gave a statement to law enforcement; why do I have to testify in court?
6. As a victim or witness, do I have to go to court?
7. I am a victim of a crime; how do I drop the charges?
8. What is the difference between restitution and reparations?
9. What is the difference between bail and bond?
10. Who do I contact regarding a landlord/tenant issue?
11. How do I determine if a defendant is still in custody?
12. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?
13. I have been called for jury duty; what do I do?
14. How do I contest or pay a traffic ticket?