NCJ Number
60038
Journal
SOLICITOR'S JOURNAL Volume: 122 Issue: 22 Dated: (MAY-JUNE 1978) Pages: 338-340,357-359
Date Published
1978
Length
6 pages
Annotation
THIS ARTICLE EXAMINES THE CONSOLIDATION OF REQUIREMENTS FOR CRIMINAL COMPENSATION TO A VICTIM UNDER BRITISH LAW.
Abstract
CHANGES IN EXISTING COMPENSATION PROVISIONS WERE SUGGESTED BY AN ADVISORY PANEL ON THE PENAL SYSTEM AND INCORPORATED WITH MODIFICATIONS INTO THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACT OF 1972. THEY ALLOWED COURTS A GENERAL POWER TO ORDER AN OFFENDER TO PAY COMPENSATION FOR PERSONAL INJURY AND LOSS OR DAMAGE RESULTING FROM OFFENSES. THIS COMPENSATION GIVES RECOGNITION TO LOSS OF THE CRIME VICTIM. COMPENSATION ORDERS HAVE BEEN CONSOLIDATED AND ARE CONTAINED IN SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE SAME ACT. THE REQUIREMENTS THAT CAN BE MADE BY A COURT ARE EXPLAINED, EXCEPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS ARE NOTED. THE COURT CANNOT MAKE A CRIMINAL BANKRUPTCY ORDER. QUESTIONS OF INTEREST TO BE PAID ON A LOSS, AND ON PROPERTY RECOVERED BUT DAMAGED, ARE ALSO ADDRESSED. WHEN MAKING AN ORDER, THE COURT SHOULD PROVIDE QUICK ALTERNATIVES FOR RECOVERY. OTHER GUIDELINES ARE OUTLINED IN THE ARTICLE, INCLUDING THE ISSUE OF THE ABILITY OF THE CONVICTED PERSON TO PAY. (RFC)