Day Fines in Europe: Assessing Income-Based Sanctions in Criminal Justice Systems

Day fines are a pecuniary sanction that can reduce inequality in the criminal sentencing system, provide an alternative to short-term prison sentences, and increase uniformity and transparency of sentencing. Almost half of the European Union countries have adopted day fines, and this book makes their findings accessible to a wider international audience.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Day fines, as a financial sanction, possess immense potential to alleviate inequality within the criminal sentencing system. By imposing the same relative punishment on all offenders, regardless of their income, they strive to create a more equitable system. Furthermore, when implemented effectively, day fines can serve as an alternative to short-term prison sentences, offering a less repressive and sometimes less efficient option. Moreover, by explicitly expressing the severity and income of the offender in the sentence, day fines contribute to greater uniformity and transparency in sentencing practices.

Recognizing the significance of day fines, nearly half of the European Union countries have incorporated them into their criminal justice systems. This book, for the first time, makes the findings of these countries accessible to a broader international audience. Designed for scholars, policy makers, and criminal law practitioners, it offers a valuable opportunity to delve into the theoretical advantages, practical challenges, successes, and failures of day fines. By exploring these aspects, the book aims to provide insights and recommendations for improving the implementation and effectiveness of day fines in criminal justice systems worldwide.

Weight: 738g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108490832