What should clerks do regarding restitution payments?

Clerks play a vital role in managing restitution payments, which are made to victims as a part of a criminal justice process. Keeping records of these payments is crucial for accountability and transparency within the system. It ensures that the victims receive what they are entitled to and that the process is documented for any future reference or legal necessity.

Coordinating payments to victims is equally important. This involves making sure that the payments are directed to the correct recipients in a timely manner. By doing so, clerks help to uphold the integrity of the judicial process and support the victims in their recovery from the impact of the crime.

In contrast, ignoring restitution payments would neglect the victims' rights and potentially violate legal obligations. Recording payments only when requested would not establish a reliable record-keeping system and could lead to issues in tracking payments over time. Lastly, returning payments to the city would undermine the purpose of restitution, which is specifically designed to compensate victims for their losses. Thus, a clerk’s responsibility includes both maintaining accurate records and facilitating the proper distribution of these payments to ensure victims receive their due compensation.