Fines

• A fine is usually given for less serious offences - the amount depends on whether it was a first offence and/or how much damage was done.
• Magistrates can impose fines of up to £5000 or £10,000 for two or more offences.
• A poorer defendant may receive a smaller fine - e.g. a speeding fine is calculated by 50%-150% of the defendants income.
• Failure to pay

  • Failing to pay may result in imprisonment.
  • Fines can be deducted from benefits, or bailiffs can be sent by the high court.
  • In 2019, 61% of fines had not been paid giving a backlog of £623 million.