Settlement (jidan) in criminal cases involves the offender compensating the victim in exchange for dropping charges or expressing forgiveness. Key effects: may lead to non-prosecution (CCP Art. 248) especially for crimes requiring complaint. Typical amounts: ¥100K-300K for assault, ¥300K-1M for moderate injury, ¥500K-3M for sexual offenses. Negotiations must go through attorneys. If victim refuses, "atonement donations" to bar associations can show remorse.
Settlement Negotiations in Japanese Criminal Cases: Process and Amounts
Key Takeaways
- ✓Reaching a settlement significantly affects prosecution and sentencing decisions
- ✓Settlement amounts vary widely depending on the offense and extent of harm
- ✓Apology and compensation are formalized in a settlement agreement
- ✓Settlement negotiations are typically conducted through attorneys
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