University of Central Florida (UCF) CJC3010 Corrections and Penology Practice Exam 2

"Day fines" are a unique system of financial penalties designed to ensure that the punishment is equitable for individuals across different income levels. This approach calculates fines not just based on the severity of the crime, but rather factors in the offender's daily income to determine the amount one should pay.

By linking the fine to income, day fines aim to achieve proportionality in punishment, meaning that wealthier offenders may pay more in actual dollars for the same offense compared to those with lower incomes, who would pay less. This system seeks to avoid the scenario where a flat fee is disproportionate to what various individuals can afford, thereby ensuring that penalties are fair and that the enforcement of law does not disproportionately affect the economically disadvantaged.

The rationale behind day fines is rooted in the principle of justice, where punishment serves not only to deter crime but also to be perceived as fair by society. By adjusting fines according to income, the criminal justice system can align better with these principles while maintaining deterrent effects.