Reparation (legal)

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In jurisprudence, reparation is replenishment of a previously inflicted loss by the criminal to the victim. Monetary restitution is a common form of reparation. Reparation through community service is based on the collectivist notion of society as a singular entity that is capable of being victimized, or on the notion of the State as the victim of all crime.

[edit] History

The principle of reparation dates back to the lex talionis of Hebrew Scripture. Anglo-Saxon courts in England before the Norman conquest also contained this principle. Under the English legal system judges must consider making a compensation order as part of the sentence for a crime. Section 130 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 requires the courts to explain their reasoning if they do not issue a compensation order.[1]

[edit] Notes and references

  1. ^ Martin, Jacqueline (2005). The English Legal System (4th ed.), p. 178. London: Hodder Arnold. ISBN 0-340-89991-3.