As Özkök Law Firm, we continue to share developments in the field of criminal law with you. In this article, we will examine in detail the judicial fine, which is frequently encountered as an alternative to imprisonment.
What is a Judicial Fine?
A judicial fine is a fine imposed instead of or in addition to imprisonment for certain crimes. The Turkish Penal Code (TCK) contains various regulations regarding the conversion of a prison sentence into a judicial fine or the application of these two sentences together.
In Which Crimes is a Judicial Fine Imposed?
A judicial fine is generally imposed as an option in cases where a prison sentence of one year or less is imposed for crimes committed intentionally. However, in some exceptional cases, longer prison sentences can also be converted into a judicial fine.
Who Can Benefit from a Judicial Fine?
In order to benefit from a judicial fine, certain conditions must come together:
Form of Crime: The crime must be committed intentionally and the sentence must be imprisoned for one year or less.
Judge’s Discretion: The judge has the authority to rule on a fine by evaluating all the evidence and circumstances in the file.
Seriousness of the Crime: The type of crime and the way it was committed are important factors that affect the decision to convert it to a fine.
Advantages of a Fine
A fine has many advantages over a prison sentence:
Prevention of Imprisonment: Thanks to a fine, the convict is saved from the risk of serving time in prison.
Return to Social Life: While imprisonment negatively affects the person’s social and business life, a fine minimizes these effects.
Reduction of Economic Losses: While imprisonment negatively affects the economic situation of the convict and his/her family, a fine limits these effects.