Financial penalties for offending in less serious crimes and are frequently distributed from magistrates courts. In crown courts, 15% of the guilty receive a fine.
What does the fine size depend on?
the type of offence
the circumstances of the offence
the offenders ability to pay
which court
Do fines meet the aims of retribution?
The financial penalty can be a good way to make the offender suffer for their crime.
Do fines meet the aims of deterrence?
Due to the cost, it may be a good individual deterrent as they'll be reluctant to lose that much money again. They can be used as a warning before harsher sentences are given out.
What happens if the offender is unable to pay the fine?
If without a good reason = prison sentence
The courts can deduct fines for benefits or seize property
If fines are unable to be paid, they can be written off as uncollectible.
