The court may order the juvenile to pay restitution, which is financial reimbursement for a victim's losses. You will receive a form called a Restitution Declaration from your advocate. You will need to complete this form and attach documentation of your losses. This form, along with your supporting documentation, is submitted to the court for consideration at sentencing. If the court orders restitution, it is the responsibility of the juvenile. If the juvenile enters into a deferred disposition, the restitution must be paid prior to any dismissal of the deferred disposition.

Restitution may include compensation to victims and/or insurance companies for costs related to medical expenses, damage and/or loss of property, counseling, impound costs, towing costs, etc.

In cases with multiple respondents, restitution is ordered 'joint and several'. Joint and several means all respondents are held accountable until the total amount of restitution owing has been paid. Its purpose is to hold each respondent accountable until a victim has been fully reimbursed.

Restitution is ordered against the juvenile, not the parents. Once restitution has been ordered, any payments are made to the Clerk's office. The Clerk's office will then distribute any money based on the court order. Money will be distributed to the victims prior to any listed insurance companies.

In some instances, the court may set a restitution hearing to deal specifically with restitution issues. In rare circumstances, you would be required to attend this hearing. You will be notified and will receive a subpoena if your attendance is needed.