In Wisconsin, restitution is a crucial component of sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 governs restitution orders. A key aspect is determining the scope of recoverable losses. Generally, restitution can cover economic losses directly resulting from the criminal conduct. This includes property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral expenses. However, it typically does not extend to non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of consortium, as these are generally addressed through civil litigation. The court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when setting the restitution amount and payment schedule. The victim must provide documentation to support their claims for restitution. If a victim receives compensation from other sources, such as insurance, that amount is usually deducted from the restitution award to prevent double recovery. The court has discretion in ordering restitution, but it must be tied to the offense for which the defendant is convicted. The focus is on making the victim whole for quantifiable financial harm.

Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 governs restitution in criminal cases. This statute allows for the court to order a convicted offender to make restitution to the victim for pecuniary loss resulting from the offense. Pecuniary loss is defined broadly to include economic losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. However, it does not typically extend to non-economic damages like pain and suffering or emotional distress, which are generally addressed through civil remedies. In cases where the victim is a business, restitution can cover lost profits directly attributable to the criminal conduct, provided these are quantifiable and directly caused by the offense. The statute also outlines procedures for determining the amount of restitution, including victim impact statements and evidence of loss. The court must consider the offender’s ability to pay when setting the restitution amount, but the primary purpose remains to make the victim whole for actual economic losses.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973.06 of the Wisconsin Statutes, governs restitution. Restitution is a mandatory component of sentencing in Wisconsin for most offenses, aiming to compensate victims for their losses. The court has broad discretion in ordering restitution, but it must be directly related to the crime committed. This includes economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and counseling costs. The statute emphasizes that restitution is for actual losses and not for pain and suffering or punitive damages. The court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when determining the amount and payment schedule. If a victim has received compensation from other sources, such as insurance, that amount is generally deducted from the restitution order to prevent double recovery. However, the restitution order is a civil judgment and can be enforced by the victim. The court must also specify the manner in which restitution is to be paid. In cases where a victim has not yet determined the full extent of their losses, the court can order restitution for the known losses and allow for a supplemental order once the total losses are ascertained, within statutory limits. The purpose is to make the victim whole for losses directly attributable to the offense.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a critical component of criminal sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 governs restitution. The law mandates that a court shall order restitution to the victim of a crime unless it determines that substantial justice has been done and that restitution is inappropriate. The court considers the financial resources and earning capacity of the offender, as well as the financial needs of the victim. Restitution can encompass a wide range of losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage or loss, and counseling costs. It is not limited to economic losses; in certain circumstances, it can also include intangible losses like pain and suffering, though this is less common and often requires specific statutory authorization or a jury award. The court has broad discretion in determining the amount and method of payment, which can include installment payments. The focus is on making the victim whole to the extent possible through the offender’s contribution. A key aspect is that restitution is ordered in addition to, not in lieu of, any other penalty. It is a civil remedy enforced through the criminal process. The court must consider the offender’s ability to pay, but the primary purpose is victim compensation.

Wisconsin Statutes section 973.09 governs restitution in criminal cases. This statute outlines the court’s authority to order a convicted offender to make restitution to the victim for losses resulting from the crime. The statute specifies that restitution may include economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. It also permits restitution for non-economic damages in certain limited circumstances, such as when the victim incurs costs for counseling or therapy directly related to the offense. However, the core principle is to compensate the victim for quantifiable economic losses directly attributable to the crime. The law emphasizes that restitution is a part of the sentence and is intended to be restorative. It is not intended to be punitive in nature, nor is it meant to enrich the victim beyond their actual losses. The court must consider the offender’s ability to pay when determining the amount and schedule of restitution. The victim’s role in the restitution process is primarily as the recipient of the ordered compensation for their proven losses. The restitution order is a civil judgment enforceable by the state.

In Wisconsin, the framework for restitution is primarily governed by Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09. This statute outlines the court’s authority to order restitution as part of a sentence or as a condition of probation. Restitution aims to compensate victims for losses directly resulting from the defendant’s crime. The determination of the amount of restitution involves a careful assessment of the victim’s losses. Wisconsin law distinguishes between economic and non-economic losses. Economic losses are generally quantifiable and include expenses such as medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and funeral expenses. Non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress, are typically not recoverable through restitution under Wisconsin law, as the focus is on direct financial impact. The court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when setting the restitution amount, balancing the victim’s need for compensation with the defendant’s financial circumstances. Restitution orders are legally binding and can be enforced through various civil and criminal mechanisms. The court has the discretion to modify restitution orders if a defendant’s financial situation changes significantly. The underlying principle is to make the victim whole for demonstrable financial harm caused by the criminal conduct.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a crucial component of sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. The Wisconsin Statutes, particularly Chapter 973, govern the imposition and enforcement of restitution orders. When a court orders restitution, it must consider the victim’s actual out-of-pocket losses. These losses are not limited to tangible property damage but can also include expenses directly related to the offense, such as medical bills, counseling costs, or lost wages. The law emphasizes that restitution is intended to make the victim whole, to the extent possible, for the direct financial impact of the crime. It is a separate and distinct obligation from any civil judgment. The court retains jurisdiction to modify restitution orders, and failure to comply can have significant consequences for the offender, including potential revocation of probation or parole. The specific types of losses that can be included are defined by statute and case law, focusing on direct causation between the offense and the financial harm.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a key component of sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 governs restitution. The statute outlines that a court shall order restitution to the victim of a crime or to any crime victim compensation or victim assistance board or agency that has paid expenses on behalf of the victim. The amount of restitution is generally limited to the actual out-of-pocket losses suffered by the victim as a direct result of the crime. This includes things like medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and counseling costs. It is crucial to understand that restitution is not intended to be punitive; it is compensatory. The court must consider the financial resources and earning capacity of the defendant when determining the amount and payment schedule, but the victim’s losses are the primary basis for the order. Collateral sources of compensation, such as insurance, generally do not reduce the amount of restitution a defendant must pay, although there are specific nuances regarding how these payments are credited. The court retains jurisdiction to modify restitution orders. The question focuses on the scope of recoverable losses under Wisconsin law, specifically excluding non-economic damages like pain and suffering, which are typically addressed through civil actions, not criminal restitution.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973.06 of the Wisconsin Statutes, governs restitution orders in criminal cases. Restitution is intended to compensate victims for losses directly resulting from the defendant’s crime. The court has broad discretion in determining the amount and type of restitution, but it must be based on actual losses. In this scenario, the victim, Ms. Albright, incurred expenses for therapy and for replacing her damaged antique vase. The therapy costs of $1,500 are a direct consequence of the emotional distress caused by the assault, and the replacement cost of the vase, which was valued at $2,200, is also a direct property loss. Therefore, the total calculable restitution amount is the sum of these two direct losses: $1,500 (therapy) + $2,200 (vase) = $3,700. Wisconsin law requires that restitution be limited to the actual pecuniary loss sustained by the victim. While the victim may have experienced inconvenience or other non-economic damages, these are not typically recoverable through a restitution order in a criminal case unless specifically enumerated as a recoverable loss by statute or directly tied to a calculable financial expense. The court’s role is to make the victim whole for quantifiable financial harm.

Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 governs restitution in criminal cases. This statute outlines the court’s authority to order a convicted offender to make restitution to victims for losses incurred as a direct result of the offense. The law emphasizes that restitution is a component of sentencing and serves to compensate victims for their financial harm. It is crucial to understand that restitution is not punitive in nature but rather remedial. The court must consider the defendant’s financial ability to pay when determining the amount and schedule of restitution. This assessment typically involves examining the offender’s income, assets, and earning capacity. Furthermore, the statute specifies that restitution can cover a broad range of expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and even counseling services directly related to the trauma of the crime. The order for restitution must be specific, detailing the amount owed and the payee. In cases where multiple victims are involved or the loss is complex, the court may appoint a restitution investigator to assist in determining appropriate amounts. The objective is to make the victim whole to the extent possible, without unduly burdening the offender. The statute also provides for modification of restitution orders if the offender’s financial circumstances change significantly. The underlying principle is to ensure that victims are not left to bear the financial consequences of criminal acts committed against them.

In Wisconsin, the restitution process is governed by statutes such as Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09, which outlines the framework for ordering restitution. Restitution aims to compensate victims for their losses directly resulting from the offender’s crime. When an offender is convicted of a crime, the court may order restitution as part of the sentence. This order typically covers economic losses, such as property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and other quantifiable financial harm. The court must consider the victim’s losses and the offender’s ability to pay when determining the amount and terms of restitution. Wisconsin law emphasizes that restitution is a primary component of sentencing, intended to make victims whole again to the extent possible. The statute also specifies that restitution orders are civil judgments, enforceable by the victim. The determination of what constitutes a direct loss is crucial; indirect or speculative damages are generally not recoverable. For instance, emotional distress damages, while real, are typically not ordered as restitution unless they have a direct, quantifiable economic component, such as requiring therapy. The focus remains on tangible, provable financial losses stemming from the criminal act. The court has discretion in setting payment schedules, often considering the offender’s financial situation. Failure to comply with a restitution order can lead to further legal consequences, including probation revocation or contempt of court proceedings. The victim’s role in documenting their losses, often through receipts, invoices, and sworn statements, is vital for the court’s determination. The law seeks to balance the victim’s right to compensation with the offender’s capacity to pay, ensuring the restitution order is both just and achievable.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 973.06, outlines the framework for restitution in criminal cases. Restitution is intended to compensate victims for their losses resulting from a crime. The statute generally requires that a convicted offender make restitution to the victim for all losses that were directly and reasonably caused by the offender’s criminal conduct. This includes economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and counseling costs. The court has the discretion to order restitution, and the amount is typically determined based on the evidence presented during sentencing. Importantly, restitution orders are not limited to the amount of damages specified in the criminal complaint. The court can consider a broader range of losses directly attributable to the offense. For instance, if a defendant is convicted of a burglary that resulted in stolen property and damage to the premises, the restitution order could encompass the value of the stolen items, the cost of repairing the damaged property, and even the victim’s lost wages due to needing to be present for repairs or police investigations, provided these losses are demonstrably linked to the burglary. The statute also allows for restitution to be paid to a restitution trust fund or directly to the victim. The focus is on making the victim whole for quantifiable economic harm stemming from the criminal act.

In Wisconsin, the concept of restitution aims to restore victims to their original condition by making offenders accountable for their losses. This is primarily governed by Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09. The statute outlines that restitution may be ordered in any criminal case, including those involving felony or misdemeanor offenses. Restitution is not limited to direct financial losses but can encompass a broader range of damages that are a direct result of the crime. This can include expenses for therapy or counseling if the victim suffered emotional distress due to the offense, as well as property damage. The court has discretion in determining the amount and method of restitution payments. Crucially, restitution is a separate component from any civil judgment that might be obtained by the victim. It is ordered as part of the criminal sentence. The purpose is to compensate the victim for losses that are directly attributable to the criminal conduct of the defendant, thereby serving both a punitive and rehabilitative function for the offender and a compensatory function for the victim. The statute also specifies that the court must consider the financial resources and earning ability of the defendant when determining the amount and schedule of restitution payments. The victim’s actual losses, as proven by evidence, are the primary basis for the restitution amount.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973 of the Wisconsin Statutes, outlines the framework for restitution in criminal cases. Restitution is a form of compensation paid by an offender to a victim for losses incurred as a direct result of the offender’s crime. The primary purpose of restitution is to make the victim whole again, to the extent possible, by reimbursing them for actual out-of-pocket losses. This can include expenses such as medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and counseling costs. The court has the discretion to order restitution, and the amount is typically determined based on evidence presented regarding the victim’s losses. It is crucial that the losses are directly attributable to the offense for which the defendant is convicted. Ancillary or speculative losses are generally not recoverable through restitution. The court must consider the offender’s ability to pay when determining the restitution amount and payment schedule. However, the inability of the offender to pay does not preclude the ordering of restitution; rather, it influences the terms of repayment. The statute emphasizes that restitution is a component of sentencing and is intended to serve both rehabilitative and compensatory goals. It is not a substitute for civil damages, though a restitution order may reduce the amount a victim can recover in a separate civil action for the same loss. The court must ensure that the restitution order is specific and clearly delineates the amounts and the victims to whom payment is owed.

Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 outlines the framework for restitution in criminal cases. A key aspect of this statute is the court’s authority to order restitution for losses incurred by victims. When a defendant is convicted of a crime, the court shall, in addition to any other penalty, order restitution to the victim for any actual damages. This includes economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. However, the statute also specifies that restitution may be ordered for losses resulting from a pattern of behavior or a course of conduct. In cases involving multiple offenses or related criminal activity, the court can consider the aggregate of losses stemming from the entire pattern, not just the specific count for which the defendant is convicted, provided these losses are directly attributable to the defendant’s criminal conduct and are quantifiable. The purpose is to make the victim whole for losses directly caused by the defendant’s criminal acts. The court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when determining the amount and schedule of restitution payments.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973 of the Wisconsin Statutes, outlines the framework for restitution. Restitution is intended to make victims whole by compensating them for losses directly resulting from the crime. The court determines the amount of restitution based on the evidence presented, which can include economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other quantifiable financial harm. Importantly, restitution is not punitive; it is compensatory. In Wisconsin, restitution can be ordered in addition to other penalties, such as fines or imprisonment. The court has broad discretion in setting restitution amounts, but these amounts must be directly tied to the criminal conduct. The statute emphasizes that restitution orders are a civil judgment and can be enforced as such. When considering restitution for property damage, the cost of repair or replacement, whichever is less, is generally the measure. For intangible losses like emotional distress, Wisconsin law does not typically allow for restitution in criminal proceedings; it is generally limited to economic losses. The court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when setting a payment schedule, but this does not negate the obligation to pay the full amount determined. The purpose is to restore the victim to their pre-crime financial position as much as possible.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973 of the Wisconsin Statutes, outlines the framework for restitution. Restitution aims to compensate victims for losses directly resulting from a crime. This compensation is ordered as part of a criminal sentence. The court determines the amount of restitution based on the victim’s actual out-of-pocket losses, which must be proven. This includes expenses for medical treatment, counseling, lost wages, property damage, and other quantifiable losses. The statute emphasizes that restitution should be ordered in an amount the offender can realistically pay. The court has discretion in determining the method and schedule of payment. In cases where a victim’s loss exceeds the amount ordered as restitution, the victim may pursue a civil judgment for the remaining balance. However, the criminal restitution order itself is a crucial component of sentencing, designed to make victims whole to the extent possible within the criminal justice system. The focus is on direct losses caused by the criminal conduct, not speculative damages or losses unrelated to the offense.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973.06 of the Wisconsin Statutes, governs restitution in criminal cases. Restitution is a court-ordered payment from a convicted offender to a victim to compensate for losses resulting from the crime. The statute emphasizes that restitution is intended to make the victim whole for actual damages. This includes economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and funeral costs. It is crucial to understand that restitution is not punitive; it is remedial. The court must consider the offender’s ability to pay when determining the amount and schedule of restitution payments. However, the inability to pay does not negate the obligation to pay restitution. In cases where the victim has received insurance proceeds for their losses, the offender is still liable for restitution to the extent that the insurance proceeds do not cover the full extent of the victim’s losses, or if the victim is obligated to repay the insurance company. This principle ensures that the victim is not left bearing the financial burden of the crime. The scope of restitution is limited to losses directly caused by the criminal conduct for which the offender was convicted. Collateral damage or losses not directly attributable to the offense are generally not recoverable through restitution. The court has broad discretion in ordering restitution, but this discretion must be exercised within the framework of the statute.

Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 governs restitution in criminal cases. This statute mandates that a court shall require a convicted offender to make restitution to the victim for pecuniary loss resulting from the offense. Pecuniary loss is defined broadly to include economic losses, but it does not extend to non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or emotional distress, which are not quantifiable in monetary terms for restitution purposes. The statute further clarifies that restitution is intended to compensate for actual economic harm. Therefore, when a victim incurs expenses for counseling due to the trauma of the offense, these costs are generally considered a direct and quantifiable economic loss stemming from the criminal conduct, provided they are reasonably incurred and documented. The key is the direct link between the offense and the incurred economic expense. Restitution is not punitive; it is compensatory. The court’s role is to determine the amount of loss and order payment by the offender. The offender’s ability to pay is a factor in the payment schedule, but not in the determination of the restitution amount itself, which is based on the victim’s actual losses.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a critical component of sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. The foundational statute governing restitution in Wisconsin is Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09. This statute outlines the court’s authority to order restitution as part of a sentence or as a condition of probation. A key aspect of restitution is that it must be directly related to the crime for which the defendant is convicted. This means that losses arising from separate, uncharged offenses, or those that are merely tangential to the offense of conviction, are generally not recoverable through restitution. The court must determine the amount of restitution based on evidence presented, ensuring it reflects actual losses. This includes economic losses such as property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes even the cost of counseling if directly related to the trauma of the crime. However, restitution is not intended to be a substitute for civil damages, and it typically does not cover speculative losses or pain and suffering. When multiple defendants are convicted of the same crime, Wisconsin law allows for joint and several liability for restitution, meaning each defendant can be held responsible for the full amount of the victim’s losses, though the victim cannot recover more than their total loss. The court retains jurisdiction to modify restitution orders if circumstances change, such as the defendant’s ability to pay. The focus remains on making the victim whole for losses directly attributable to the criminal conduct.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973 of the Wisconsin Statutes, outlines the framework for restitution. Restitution is intended to compensate victims for losses directly attributable to the defendant’s criminal conduct. In cases involving property damage, the court must order restitution for the actual cost of repair or replacement of damaged property. If the property is damaged beyond repair, restitution is for the fair market value of the property at the time of the offense. The statute emphasizes that restitution is not punitive but compensatory. It is ordered in addition to any sentence imposed. The victim’s role in mitigating damages is also a consideration; however, this does not preclude restitution for losses that were reasonably incurred. The amount of restitution is determined by the court based on evidence presented, which can include repair estimates, invoices, or appraisals. The court must ensure that the restitution order is causally linked to the offense. If a defendant is convicted of multiple offenses arising from the same course of conduct, the court may order restitution for the total losses suffered by the victim, provided each loss is directly attributable to one of the offenses. The statute also allows for restitution for expenses incurred by the victim in connection with the offense, such as medical bills or counseling costs, if these are directly related.

Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 outlines the framework for restitution in criminal cases. Specifically, the statute addresses the scope of restitution and the factors a court must consider when ordering it. When a court orders restitution, it is typically based on the pecuniary loss suffered by the victim as a direct result of the defendant’s criminal conduct. This loss can encompass a wide range of expenses, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and counseling services. The statute emphasizes that restitution is intended to make the victim whole for actual losses. It is not intended as punishment for the offender, although it is imposed as part of the sentencing process. The court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when determining the amount and schedule of restitution payments. However, the inability to pay does not negate the victim’s right to receive restitution for their proven losses. The statute also allows for restitution to be ordered in addition to, or in lieu of, other penalties. In cases where multiple victims are involved, restitution can be ordered for each victim’s losses. The focus remains on compensating the victim for quantifiable economic harm directly caused by the offense.

Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 outlines the provisions for restitution in criminal cases. Restitution is a court-ordered payment by a convicted offender to a victim for losses incurred as a direct result of the offense. The statute emphasizes that restitution is intended to compensate victims for actual out-of-pocket losses. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other quantifiable financial harm. The court has the discretion to order restitution, and the amount is typically determined based on evidence presented during sentencing. The statute also addresses situations where the victim has received compensation from other sources, such as insurance. In such cases, the restitution order may be reduced by the amount of collateral recovery, but only to the extent that the victim has not been made whole. This prevents double recovery for the victim. The court must consider the offender’s financial resources and ability to pay when determining the amount and payment schedule for restitution. The purpose is to make the victim whole while also being realistic about the offender’s capacity.

Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 outlines the framework for restitution in criminal cases. A key aspect is that restitution orders are intended to compensate victims for actual out-of-pocket losses directly resulting from the crime. The statute specifies that restitution may include, but is not limited to, expenses incurred for psychological or physical therapy, medical examination and treatment, and lost wages. It is crucial to understand that restitution is not meant to be punitive or to compensate for speculative damages or losses not directly attributable to the criminal conduct. In the scenario provided, the victim’s lost wages due to attending court proceedings are a direct consequence of the criminal action and the legal process initiated by it. Therefore, these lost wages are a compensable loss under Wisconsin restitution law. The statute also allows for restitution for property damage or loss, which would include the cost of repairing the damaged vehicle. The restitution order must be for the actual financial losses sustained by the victim, not an arbitrary amount. The court determines the amount of restitution based on evidence presented, ensuring it aligns with the victim’s documented expenses.

Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 973.06 outlines restitution requirements in criminal cases. The statute mandates that a convicted offender shall make restitution to the victim for all losses resulting from the crime. This includes economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. However, it specifically excludes compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, or other intangible losses. The purpose of restitution under Wisconsin law is to make the victim whole in terms of economic damages directly attributable to the criminal conduct. It is not intended as a punitive measure against the offender beyond the economic restoration to the victim, nor is it a substitute for civil damages. Therefore, in the scenario presented, the court can order restitution for the stolen laptop and the repair costs for the damaged door, as these are direct economic losses. However, compensation for the victim’s fear and anxiety, while understandable, falls outside the scope of restitution as defined by Wisconsin statutes, which are focused on quantifiable economic harm.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a crucial component of sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 governs restitution. This statute outlines that a court may require a convicted offender to make restitution to the victim. The scope of restitution is broad and can include pecuniary losses resulting directly from the crime. This includes not only direct property damage or medical expenses but also other quantifiable losses. For instance, if a victim loses income due to attending court proceedings or therapy related to the crime, this can be included. However, the losses must be directly attributable to the offense. Emotional distress or pain and suffering, while significant, are generally not recoverable through criminal restitution in Wisconsin unless they manifest as specific, quantifiable financial losses (e.g., therapy costs directly resulting from the trauma). The court has discretion in determining the amount and method of restitution, often considering the offender’s ability to pay. The focus is on making the victim whole for demonstrable financial harm caused by the criminal act. The statute emphasizes that restitution is a condition of probation or a part of the sentence itself, and failure to comply can have serious consequences for the offender. The purpose is remedial, not punitive, though it serves as a deterrent by imposing financial responsibility.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a critical component of criminal sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. Wisconsin Statutes § 973.09 outlines the framework for restitution. A key aspect is the court’s authority to order restitution for pecuniary losses. Pecuniary loss is defined as economic loss, encompassing expenses such as medical costs, lost wages, and property damage. The statute is clear that restitution is not limited to the direct losses suffered by the victim but can also include reasonable expenses incurred by third parties in providing services to the victim. For instance, if a victim requires counseling due to trauma from the offense, the cost of that counseling can be a reimbursable pecuniary loss. Furthermore, the court must consider the defendant’s ability to pay when determining the amount and schedule of restitution payments, ensuring the order is both fair to the victim and feasible for the offender. The statute also allows for restitution to be ordered even if the victim has received compensation from other sources, such as insurance, although this may affect the amount awarded to prevent double recovery. The primary goal remains to make the victim whole for the losses directly attributable to the criminal conduct.

Wisconsin law, specifically under Chapter 973.06 of the Wisconsin Statutes, governs restitution. Restitution is a court-ordered payment by an offender to a victim for losses resulting from the offense. The scope of restitution is broad and can include economic losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and funeral expenses. It can also encompass non-economic losses that are quantifiable and directly related to the offense, such as the cost of counseling services or the value of lost irreplaceable personal items. The court determines the amount of restitution based on the losses proven by the victim, typically through documentation or testimony. A critical aspect is that restitution orders are separate from any civil judgment and do not preclude a victim from pursuing a civil claim for damages not covered by restitution. The court must consider the offender’s ability to pay when setting the restitution amount and payment schedule. The purpose is to make the victim whole to the extent possible and to hold the offender accountable. In Wisconsin, restitution is a mandatory component of sentencing for most felony and misdemeanor offenses where a victim has suffered a loss. The law emphasizes that restitution is intended to compensate for actual losses, not to punish the offender beyond the repayment of those losses. Therefore, any loss that is directly and demonstrably caused by the criminal conduct, and for which the victim has not been otherwise compensated, is generally eligible for restitution.

In Wisconsin, restitution is a critical component of sentencing, aiming to compensate victims for losses incurred due to a crime. Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 governs restitution. The law mandates that a court order restitution in all cases where a victim has suffered a financial loss. The scope of restitution can be broad, encompassing not only direct economic losses like medical bills and property damage but also, in certain circumstances, intangible losses such as lost wages or counseling costs directly related to the offense. The court has discretion in determining the amount and method of restitution, but the order must be specific and related to the crime. For instance, if a defendant is convicted of vandalism, restitution could include the cost of repairing the damaged property, any security upgrades implemented by the victim as a result of the vandalism, and potentially lost rental income if the property was used for commercial purposes and the damage caused a vacancy. The statute emphasizes that restitution is a condition of probation or a standalone sentence, and failure to comply can lead to revocation of probation or further penalties. The court must consider the defendant’s financial resources and earning ability when setting the restitution amount, ensuring it is both fair to the victim and achievable for the offender. This principle ensures that restitution serves its purpose of making the victim whole without unduly punishing the offender beyond their capacity.

Wisconsin Statute § 973.09 outlines the framework for restitution in criminal cases. This statute mandates that a court shall, in addition to any other penalty imposed, order the convicted offender to make restitution to the victim for pecuniary losses resulting from the offense. Pecuniary loss is defined as economic loss, including but not limited to, medical expenses, lost wages, funeral expenses, and property damage. The statute also specifies that restitution may be ordered for losses incurred by a victim who is not the direct object of the crime, such as a victim’s employer for lost wages if the victim was unable to work due to the crime. The determination of the amount of restitution involves considering the offender’s ability to pay and the extent of the victim’s losses. The court has the discretion to order restitution in a lump sum or in installments. Importantly, restitution orders are enforceable as civil judgments. In cases where a victim has received insurance proceeds for losses, the offender is generally not required to pay for those losses that have been compensated by insurance, unless the insurer has a right of subrogation against the offender. The purpose is to make the victim whole for actual losses directly attributable to the criminal conduct.