Previously known as the Uniform Bail Schedule, the document below provides guidance to judges (and prosecutors) in determining an appropriate dollar amount to impose as a fine as part of sentencing for a criminal conviction.
Most of the amounts contained in this “schedule” are not mandatory, but are instead intended to promote general principles of uniformity among various jurisdictions and court locations. Courts should still exercise discretion in determining the appropriate level of fine to imposed in each individual case.
In light of the deterrent and retributive effects intended by imposing a financial penalty, a good defense attorney can politely remind the courts that the harshness of such penalties may depend more on the financial status of an individual than on the actual amount of the fine itself. A fine of $500 can be seen as insignificant to a person of substantial financial means. The same fine, however, can put enormous financial and emotional stress on a person struggling to make ends meet.
The first few pages (1-8) contain general information on the use of the uniform schedule. Recommended fine amounts for specific offenses begin at page 9.