Module 4 Summary

By permitting and utilizing alternative sanctions, courts can develop a more inclusive approach to justice that supports rehabilitation and defendant and community well-being. Courts implementing alternative sanctions should seek input from community stakeholders to ensure that the sanctions address local needs and do not impose additional burdens on defendants, such as transportation challenges or conflicts with caregiving and employment responsibilities.

Judges must be comfortable adjusting the type of sanction, reductions in amount due, and allowing extensions in the time to pay.

As we transition to the next module, we will directly examine the role of judicial discretion when applying fines and fees and assessing the ability to pay.