What to do if I was ordered to pay restituation for a crime I committed but can’t afford it?
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What to do if I was ordered to pay restituation for a crime I committed but can’t afford it?
I was ordered to pay it over 5 years but aam unable to pay the amount. In my paperwork i received when i was charged with the crime it states that I will have to serve 11 months in prison for non payment. I have a hearing this friday to find out my fate. What do you think will happen and will i have to pay the restitution if and when I get out of prison?
Asked on January 4, 2013 under Criminal Law, Ohio
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
You need to request - no demand - that a public defender be appointed for you for this matter. Generally speaking, you should not be thrown in jail for not paying. But if it is a term of the probation - and you violate probation - then I can see the consequence coming. If you can pay something but not the amount indicated use this as a bargaining tool. And if you are thrown in jail appeal the sentencing. This all does not sound right. Good luck.
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