Fine
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Plain-English Meaning
A monetary penalty imposed by a court as punishment for a crime or violation. Fines are one of the most common criminal sentences for violations and misdemeanors.
Legal Context
Under N.Y. Penal Law § 80.05, the maximum fine for a misdemeanor is $1,000, and for a violation, $250. Courts may impose fines alone or in combination with probation, a conditional discharge, or jail. For corporate defendants or for cases involving financial gain, higher fines are available. ECB and OATH fines are set by agency rules and can be much higher.
Real-Life Example
After pleading guilty to disorderly conduct (a violation), Sandra was sentenced to a $100 fine. She paid at the court clerk's window. No jail time and no criminal record.
Related Statutes
Related Terms
Source
Based on N.Y. Penal Law § 80.05. Original B-Legal plain-language explanation.
N.Y. Penal Law § 80.05
Definitions are simplified for education. Legal meanings vary by jurisdiction, context, and case facts. This definition is original B-Legal content and is not affiliated with or derived from any proprietary legal dictionary.