What is the purpose of Restitution?

The purpose of restitution is fundamentally about making amends for harm caused by the offender's actions. Specifically, it is aimed at restoring losses or damages to the rightful owner, which may include compensation for financial harm, property damage, or other losses incurred as a direct result of the crime. This serves several functions: it helps to provide some measure of justice to victims, encourages accountability from the offender, and helps to rehabilitate the offender by fostering an understanding of the impact of their actions.

Restitution is seen as a way to remedy the situation rather than to punish the offender, which distinguishes it from punitive measures, such as imprisonment. It emphasizes the importance of repairing relationships and addressing the needs of victims, aligning with restorative justice principles.