Civil Compromise


Definition of Civil Compromise

A civil compromise is when a convicted criminal is forced to pay damages to their victim as opposed to going to jail as punishment.

Civil compromises can only take place if the crime is a misdemeanor, and if the victim agrees to it. Otherwise, the criminal will likely be sentenced to jail.



Civil Compromise Explained

Part of the reason why civil compromises exist is because in many circumstances, victims would have the legal right to sue the criminal in a civil suit as well. So, civil compromises can save the court's time by having the damages be paid through the criminal trial.

Often, the judge and the attorneys involved must agree to the terms of the civil compromise in order for it to be approved. Petty theft is an example of a crime that may result in a civil compromise.





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