Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: vandalism charges

I assume you are talking about a restitution payment order imposed by a judge on a defendant in a criminal case.

The court will usually set the payment deadline. Defendant has the right to ask the judge to order payments which are within Defendant's ability to pay. If the restitution amount is significant and defendant cannot pay it off in one lump sum, the court will schedule monthly payments. The court will maintain supervision over the progress of the payments for as long as the probationary period lasts. After probation expires, the court loses jurisdiction but the restitution order converts to a civil judgment which the victim can enforce and collect on.

If you are talking about court fees and fines, the court will set the deadline as well. Court should be receptive to giving defendant as much time as necessary to pay.

Hope this helps,

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com