Current through Pa Acts 2024-53, 2024-56 through 2024-111
(a) Fine onlyThe court may, as authorized by law, sentence the defendant only to pay a fine, when, having regard to the nature and circumstances of the crime and to the history and character of the defendant, it is of the opinion that the fine alone suffices.(b) Fine as additional sentenceThe court may sentence the defendant to pay a fine in addition to another sentence, either involving total or partial confinement or probation, when:(1) the defendant has derived a pecuniary gain from the crime; or(2) the court is of the opinion that a fine is specially adapted to deterrence of the crime involved or to the correction of the defendant.(c) ExceptionThe court shall not sentence a defendant to pay a fine unless it appears of record that:(1) the defendant is or will be able to pay the fine; and(2) the fine will not prevent the defendant from making restitution or reparation to the victim of the crime.(d) Financial resourcesIn determining the amount and method of payment of a fine, the court shall take into account the financial resources of the defendant and the nature of the burden that its payment will impose.1974, Dec. 30, P.L. 1052, No. 345, § 1, effective in 90 days. Renumbered from 18 Pa.C.S. § 1326 by 1980, Oct. 5, P.L. 693, No. 142, § 401(a), effective in 60 days.