A court order requiring payment for a victim's losses.

"Court order" means it is part of a criminal case, usually entered at sentencing after a conviction or plea. "Payment" means real money, not community service or an apology. "Victim's losses" usually means out-of-pocket harm tied to the offense, such as medical bills, property damage, towing, or lost income. It is not the same as a criminal fine, which is paid to the government, and it is not the same as damages awarded in a separate civil claim. In Kansas, courts may order restitution under K.S.A. 21-6604(b)(1) (2024), unless the judge finds compelling circumstances that make a restitution plan unworkable.

For someone dealing with a DUI case, a restitution order can add another layer of financial pressure on top of fines, fees, insurance increases, and license-related costs. If a crash on I-35 or a low-visibility wreck during a dust storm on US-56 caused injury or property loss, restitution may be ordered for the direct damage suffered by the other person.

It can also affect an injury claim. Restitution may help cover immediate losses, but it does not always pay everything and does not automatically end a separate personal injury claim. If the person ordered to pay falls behind, the issue can affect probation and collections, even after the criminal case seems finished.