Compensation
If someone is caught and convicted the criminal court may order the offender to pay compensation.
The victim is required to supply the police with accurate details of their losses and, where possible, documentary evidence such as receipts. The police will pass this information to the CPS who inform the court.
They can be compensated for the following:
- personal injury;
- losses through theft of, or damage to, property;
- losses through fraud;
- loss of earnings while off work;
- medical expenses;
- travelling expenses;
- pain and suffering;
- loss, damage or injury caused by a stolen vehicle.
If the court decides to make an order against the offender, he or she will be required to pay the money to the court which will pass it on to the victim. The court will take into account the offender's circumstances and ability to pay. An offender might not have to pay for the full amount of the loss and may be able to pay by installments rather than in one lump sum.