When You Cannot Pay
ORS 161.685 — more time, a smaller payment, or a fine revoked, where the default is not contempt
When a person defaults on a court-ordered fine or restitution, the court may require them to show why the default should not be treated as contempt.
Where the default is not contempt. If the court is satisfied the default is not contempt, it may allow more time to pay, reduce the payments, or revoke the fine or restitution in whole or in part.
Confinement for contempt over an unpaid fine may not exceed one day for each $25, 30 days for a violation or misdemeanor, or one year otherwise, whichever is shorter. A default may also be reported to a consumer reporting agency.
Sources for this section (1)
- ORS 161.685 — Effect of nonpayment of fines, restitution or costs
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Oregon attorney.