Services Provided l Crime Victim Rights l Restitution l Court Procedures Q&A l Additional Resources
What is restitution?
Restitution is a court order for money that an offender pays to the victim for any out-of-pocket expenses that occurred as a direct result of the crime. Restitution can be ordered both in adult and juvenile criminal cases at sentencing (adult) and disposition (juvenile) hearings.
How can I request restitution?
You must complete an affidavit of restitution form. Here you will provide a list of your losses, the dollar value of repair or replacement, and receipts or reasons justifying the amounts. The form should be filed as soon as possible. Examples of losses covered by restitution include, but are not limited to:
- medical bills not covered by insurance
- transportation
- lost wages
- repair or replacement of stolen or damaged property
Copies of bills, receipts, insurance claim forms and estimates should be attached to the affidavit of restitution form. The form must also be stamped, notarized and include the defendant's name and court file numbers. If you need help or assistance completing the affidavit of restitution form please call the Ramsey County Attorney Victim/Witness Office at
What is Reparation?
Reparation is money available to assist victims with certain costs incurred as a result of a crime, such as:
- medical care
- counseling costs
- lost wages
- substitute child care
- funeral expenses.
Property damage or loss is not covered.
Most claims must be filed within 3 years of the incident. Victims of violent crimes should file a claim for reparations even if they are also requesting restitution. It is not guaranteed the offender will pay restitution and not all victims are eligible for reparations. The Ramsey County Victim / Witness Division can assist your with that process.
What is the difference between Restitution and Reparation?
Restitution:
- Financial responsibility of the defendant
- Only available if the offender is convicted of a crime and the judge orders it to be paid
- Can only be ordered for expenses directly related to a crime, including property losses
Reparations:
- Financial assistance from the government
- Available for victims of violent crimes regardless of whether the case is charged or the offender is found guilty
- Only available for victims of crimes reported to law enforcement
- Does not cover property losses
