Restitution

What is Restitution?

Restitution is payment made by the offender or juvenile for medical, counseling, property loss or damage, lost wages, or other crime related expenses incurred by the victim. Restitution can be ordered by the court during sentencing as part of the Judgment and becomes a condition of the offender’s or juvenile’s probation or post-prison supervision.

Restitution is not awarded for pain and suffering. Requesting restitution as part of the criminal case does not impair your right to sue and recover damages from the defendant in a separate civil action for pain and suffering.

Also note, requesting restitution is not a guarantee that the defendant will pay the restitution after the court case is completed. Even if you request restitution, you will still be responsible for the bills that are a part of the restitution and you may need to contact the provider to make payment arrangements.

If you are a victim of a crime and the case is being prosecuted by the District Attorney’s Office, you may be eligible for restitution. If you have suffered any direct crime related financial losses and would like to seek reimbursement from the defendant, please contact Jefferson County Victim Assistance at (541) 475-4463 and ask to speak with the Restitution Specialist.

* Please note that if your mailing address changes during the period in which you are to receive restitution payments, please notify the Jefferson County Courthouse at (541) 475-3317.