Can a judge make somebody pay $300 a month even if that person is unemployed?
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Can a judge make somebody pay $300 a month even if that person is unemployed?
I am a full time college student and I have no income right now. The judge told me to pay $300 a month for a restitution I owe to the court. The judge said that I better have paid the money before I come back to court in a month or I will go to jail (I guess). Trouble is, I don’t have 300 a month. Can he legally try to make me do this?
Asked on March 13, 2014 under Criminal Law, Arkansas
Answers:
Anne Brady / Law Office of Anne Brady
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
Yes, the judge can order you to pay restitution even if you do not have a job. Yes, if you fail to make your payments, he can lock you up. Borrow the money, or sell something you own to cover the restitution.
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