Restitution

Restitution refers to the act of restoring or making right something that has been lost or damaged. In the legal context, restitution is often used to refer to the compensation or payment that a defendant is required to make to a victim as part of a criminal or civil sentence. This can include reimbursement for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, or other tangible losses suffered by the victim. The goal of restitution is to restore the victim to their pre-loss condition and to hold the offender accountable for their actions. Restitution may also involve other forms of compensation, such as community service or payment to a victim assistance fund. In addition to its legal context, restitution can also be used more broadly to refer to efforts to make right a wrong or restore a relationship that has been damaged. This can involve making apologies, taking responsibility for one’s actions, or making efforts to repair the harm caused.