In federal court cases, What Is Restitution and how does it work for victims of financial crimes? At WHAT.EDU.VN, we provide clear answers. Restitution is court-ordered reimbursement for financial losses suffered by victims due to a crime. This guide explores what restitution covers, how it’s determined, and the process of receiving compensation, offering valuable insights into victim assistance, financial recovery, and legal redress.
1. What is Restitution and How Does it Work in the Legal System?
Restitution is a legal remedy where a court orders a defendant to compensate a victim for losses or damages resulting from the defendant’s criminal actions. It’s a cornerstone of the justice system, aiming to make victims whole again.
1.1. Definition of Restitution
Restitution is more than just a payment; it’s a process of restoration. It involves the offender providing compensation to the victim for the harm caused, whether financial, physical, or emotional. The goal is to restore the victim to the position they were in before the crime occurred, as much as possible.
1.2. The Legal Basis for Restitution
The legal basis for restitution varies depending on jurisdiction, but it’s generally rooted in the principle that wrongdoers should be held accountable for the harm they inflict. In criminal cases, restitution is often ordered as part of the sentencing process. In civil cases, it can be awarded as a remedy for various types of harm.
1.3. How Restitution Differs from Other Legal Remedies
While restitution aims to restore the victim, other legal remedies like fines and penalties serve different purposes. Fines are paid to the government as punishment, while restitution is paid to the victim as compensation. Unlike civil damages, which may include compensation for pain and suffering, restitution typically focuses on quantifiable losses.
2. What Types of Losses Are Typically Covered by Restitution?
Restitution is designed to cover a broad range of losses directly related to the crime committed. Understanding what losses are eligible can help victims navigate the process more effectively.
2.1. Financial Losses
Financial losses are the most common type of losses covered by restitution. These may include:
- Lost Income: Wages or salary lost due to the crime.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace damaged property.
- Medical Expenses: Medical bills, therapy costs, and related healthcare expenses.
2.2. Emotional Distress and Psychological Harm
While less tangible, emotional distress and psychological harm can also be grounds for restitution in some cases. This may include compensation for counseling, therapy, and other mental health services needed as a result of the crime.
2.3. Funeral and Burial Expenses
In cases where the crime results in death, restitution may cover funeral and burial expenses incurred by the victim’s family. This ensures that families are not burdened with additional financial strain during a difficult time.
3. How is the Amount of Restitution Determined?
Determining the appropriate amount of restitution involves a careful assessment of the victim’s losses and the defendant’s ability to pay.
3.1. Gathering Information from Victims
The process typically begins with gathering information from the victim about their losses. This may involve providing documentation such as receipts, medical bills, and pay stubs.
3.2. Assessing the Defendant’s Ability to Pay
The court also considers the defendant’s financial situation when determining the amount of restitution. If the defendant has limited resources, the court may order a smaller amount or establish a payment plan.
3.3. The Role of the Court in Determining Restitution
Ultimately, the court has the final say in determining the amount of restitution. The judge will consider all relevant factors, including the victim’s losses, the defendant’s ability to pay, and any other relevant circumstances.
4. What is the Process of Receiving Restitution Payments?
Receiving restitution payments can be a lengthy and complex process. Understanding the steps involved can help victims navigate the system more effectively.
4.1. Establishing a Payment Plan
Once the amount of restitution is determined, the court will establish a payment plan. This may involve the defendant making regular payments over a set period of time.
4.2. Monitoring Payments and Enforcement
It’s important to monitor payments to ensure the defendant is complying with the court’s order. If the defendant fails to make payments, the victim may need to take legal action to enforce the order.
4.3. What Happens If the Offender Cannot Pay?
Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that the offender will be able to pay the full amount of restitution. In some cases, the victim may need to explore other options for compensation, such as victim compensation funds or civil lawsuits.
5. What Are the Limitations of Restitution?
While restitution can be a valuable tool for victims, it’s important to understand its limitations.
5.1. Maximum Amount Limits
Some jurisdictions have maximum limits on the amount of restitution that can be ordered. This may prevent victims from fully recovering their losses.
5.2. Time Limits for Claiming Restitution
There may also be time limits for claiming restitution. Victims need to be aware of these deadlines to ensure they don’t miss the opportunity to seek compensation.
5.3. Difficulty in Collecting Restitution
Even if restitution is ordered, it can be difficult to collect the full amount. The offender may lack the financial resources to pay, or they may simply refuse to comply with the court’s order.
6. What Role Does the Victim Impact Statement Play in Restitution?
The Victim Impact Statement is a crucial document that allows victims to describe how the crime has affected them.
6.1. Purpose of the Victim Impact Statement
The purpose of the Victim Impact Statement is to provide the court with a comprehensive understanding of the harm caused by the crime. This information can be used to determine the appropriate amount of restitution and to inform the sentencing decision.
6.2. Information Included in the Statement
The Victim Impact Statement may include details about financial losses, emotional distress, physical injuries, and any other ways the crime has impacted the victim’s life.
6.3. How the Statement Affects the Restitution Order
The court will consider the information in the Victim Impact Statement when determining the amount of restitution. The more detailed and compelling the statement, the more likely it is that the victim will receive adequate compensation.
7. What is the Role of the Financial Litigation Unit (FLU)?
The Financial Litigation Unit plays a key role in enforcing restitution orders and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they are entitled to.
7.1. Purpose of the FLU
The FLU is responsible for pursuing various means to enforce restitution orders on behalf of victims. This may include garnishing wages, seizing assets, and taking other legal actions.
7.2. How the FLU Enforces Restitution Orders
The FLU monitors efforts in enforcing judgments and works to identify defendant assets or income that can be used to satisfy the restitution order.
7.3. Assistance Provided to Victims by the FLU
The FLU provides assistance to victims by keeping them informed about the status of their case and by working to ensure they receive the restitution payments they are entitled to.
8. What Are the Rights of Victims in the Restitution Process?
Victims have certain rights in the restitution process, including the right to be informed, to participate, and to receive compensation.
8.1. Right to Be Informed
Victims have the right to be informed about the status of their case, including any restitution orders that have been issued.
8.2. Right to Participate
Victims have the right to participate in the restitution process by providing information about their losses and by attending court hearings.
8.3. Right to Receive Compensation
Victims have the right to receive compensation for their losses, as ordered by the court.
9. What Happens to Restitution If the Victim Dies?
If the victim dies before receiving the full amount of restitution, the remaining payments may be distributed to their estate or to their heirs.
9.1. Distribution of Unpaid Restitution
The distribution of unpaid restitution will depend on the laws of the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case.
9.2. Legal Procedures for Claiming Restitution
The victim’s estate or heirs may need to take legal action to claim the remaining restitution payments. This may involve filing a claim in probate court or pursuing a civil lawsuit.
9.3. Impact on Victim’s Family
The receipt of restitution payments can provide financial relief to the victim’s family during a difficult time.
10. How Does Restitution Work in Different Types of Crimes?
Restitution can be ordered in a wide range of criminal cases, including fraud, theft, assault, and homicide.
10.1. Restitution in Fraud Cases
In fraud cases, restitution may cover losses suffered by investors, consumers, or businesses.
10.2. Restitution in Theft Cases
In theft cases, restitution may cover the value of stolen property, as well as any related expenses.
10.3. Restitution in Violent Crime Cases
In violent crime cases, restitution may cover medical expenses, lost income, and other losses resulting from the crime.
11. What Are Some Common Challenges in Obtaining Restitution?
Obtaining restitution can be a challenging process, particularly in cases where the offender has limited resources or is unwilling to cooperate.
11.1. Locating the Offender’s Assets
One of the biggest challenges is locating the offender’s assets. This may require conducting a thorough investigation and working with law enforcement agencies.
11.2. Dealing with Multiple Victims
In cases where there are multiple victims, it can be difficult to divide the available funds fairly.
11.3. Overcoming Legal Obstacles
Victims may also face legal obstacles, such as appeals or bankruptcy filings, that can delay or prevent them from receiving restitution.
12. How Can Victims Increase Their Chances of Receiving Restitution?
There are several steps victims can take to increase their chances of receiving restitution.
12.1. Documenting Losses Thoroughly
It’s important to document all losses thoroughly, including financial losses, medical expenses, and emotional distress.
12.2. Working with Law Enforcement
Victims should cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies and provide them with any information that may be helpful in locating the offender’s assets.
12.3. Seeking Legal Assistance
Victims may also want to seek legal assistance from an attorney who specializes in victim’s rights.
13. What is the Inmate Financial Responsibility Program?
The Inmate Financial Responsibility Program encourages offenders to begin repaying restitution while they are still incarcerated.
13.1. Purpose of the Program
The purpose of the program is to promote financial responsibility among inmates and to ensure that victims receive compensation for their losses.
13.2. How the Program Works
Through this program, a percentage of the inmate’s prison wages is applied to their restitution obligations.
13.3. Benefits for Victims
The program provides a source of funds for restitution payments, which can help victims recover their losses more quickly.
14. What Are Abstract of Judgments and How Do They Help?
An Abstract of Judgment is a document that can give victims a lien against the offender’s property.
14.1. Purpose of Abstract of Judgments
The purpose of an Abstract of Judgment is to secure the victim’s right to receive restitution payments.
14.2. How to Obtain and Record an Abstract of Judgment
Victims can request an Abstract of Judgment from the Clerk’s office and record it in the county where the offender owns property.
14.3. Legal Rights of Judgment Lien Creditors
By recording an Abstract of Judgment, victims gain similar legal rights as any other civil judgment lien creditor, which means they can collect the money from the offender themselves.
15. What Are Some Alternatives to Restitution?
In some cases, restitution may not be the most effective way for victims to receive compensation. There are several alternatives that victims may want to consider.
15.1. Victim Compensation Funds
Victim compensation funds provide financial assistance to victims of crime, regardless of whether the offender is ever apprehended or convicted.
15.2. Civil Lawsuits
Victims may also be able to pursue a civil lawsuit against the offender to recover their losses.
15.3. Insurance Claims
In some cases, victims may be able to file an insurance claim to cover their losses.
16. How Does Restitution Impact the Offender?
Restitution can have a significant impact on the offender, both financially and emotionally.
16.1. Financial Burden on the Offender
Restitution can create a significant financial burden on the offender, particularly if they have limited resources.
16.2. Incentive for Rehabilitation
Restitution can also serve as an incentive for rehabilitation, as it encourages offenders to take responsibility for their actions and make amends to their victims.
16.3. Impact on Offender’s Future
The obligation to pay restitution can impact the offender’s future financial opportunities, such as obtaining loans or credit.
17. What Resources Are Available to Victims Seeking Restitution?
There are many resources available to victims seeking restitution, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and legal professionals.
17.1. Government Agencies
Government agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Financial Litigation Unit can provide assistance to victims in the restitution process.
17.2. Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations such as victim advocacy groups can provide support, counseling, and legal assistance to victims of crime.
17.3. Legal Professionals
Attorneys who specialize in victim’s rights can provide legal advice and representation to victims seeking restitution.
18. How Can the System Be Improved to Better Serve Victims of Crime?
There are several ways the system can be improved to better serve victims of crime seeking restitution.
18.1. Increased Funding for Victim Services
Increased funding for victim services can help ensure that victims have access to the resources they need to navigate the restitution process.
18.2. Streamlining the Restitution Process
Streamlining the restitution process can make it easier for victims to receive the compensation they are entitled to.
18.3. Enhanced Enforcement of Restitution Orders
Enhanced enforcement of restitution orders can help ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
19. What Are Some Examples of Successful Restitution Cases?
There have been many successful restitution cases where victims have been able to recover their losses and rebuild their lives.
19.1. Case Studies of Victims Receiving Full Restitution
There are numerous case studies of victims who have received full restitution for their losses, thanks to the efforts of law enforcement agencies, victim advocates, and legal professionals.
19.2. Lessons Learned from These Cases
These cases demonstrate the importance of documenting losses thoroughly, cooperating with law enforcement, and seeking legal assistance when necessary.
19.3. Impact on Victims’ Lives
Receiving restitution can have a profound impact on victims’ lives, allowing them to recover from their losses and move forward with their lives.
20. What Does the Future Hold for Restitution and Victim’s Rights?
The future of restitution and victim’s rights looks promising, with ongoing efforts to improve the system and better serve victims of crime.
20.1. Ongoing Efforts to Improve the System
There are ongoing efforts to improve the restitution system, including legislative reforms, increased funding for victim services, and enhanced enforcement of restitution orders.
20.2. Emerging Trends in Victim’s Rights
Emerging trends in victim’s rights include increased recognition of the emotional and psychological harm caused by crime, as well as greater emphasis on restorative justice and victim empowerment.
20.3. Hope for the Future
With continued dedication and commitment, we can create a system that truly serves the needs of victims of crime and ensures that they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
21. Understanding Restitution in Federal Court
In the U.S. Federal Court system, restitution plays a vital role in compensating victims of federal crimes.
21.1. How Federal Courts Handle Restitution
Federal courts are authorized to order restitution to victims of certain federal crimes. The process involves the U.S. Probation Office gathering financial loss information from various sources, including investigative agents, Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs), and the victims themselves.
21.2. Eligibility for Restitution in Federal Cases
Eligibility for restitution in federal cases generally includes direct financial losses incurred due to the offender’s crime, such as lost income, property damage, counseling, medical expenses, and funeral costs.
21.3. The Role of the U.S. Probation Office
The U.S. Probation Office plays a crucial role in gathering financial loss information from investigative agents, AUSAs, and victims prior to sentencing. This information is often obtained through “Victim Impact Statements.”
22. Financial Losses Eligible for Restitution
Understanding which financial losses are eligible for restitution is essential for victims seeking compensation.
22.1. Lost Income and Wages
Lost income and wages are commonly eligible for restitution, especially when victims are unable to work due to injuries or trauma caused by the crime.
22.2. Property Damage and Loss
Restitution can cover the costs to repair or replace damaged or lost property resulting from the crime.
22.3. Medical and Counseling Expenses
Medical and counseling expenses directly related to the crime are typically eligible for restitution, including therapy, medication, and other healthcare costs.
23. Financial Losses Not Eligible for Restitution
It’s also important to know which financial losses are not eligible for restitution, as these expenses cannot be claimed.
23.1. State and Federal Taxes
State and federal taxes, as well as any interest, penalties, or fines associated with them, are generally not eligible for restitution.
23.2. Legal Representation Expenses
Expenses for private legal representation relating to personal or business legal issues raised by the crime are typically not eligible for restitution.
23.3. Fees for Tax Advisors and Accountants
Fees for tax advisors, accountants, or other professionals, as well as legal expenses for the civil recovery of financial losses, are not usually covered by restitution.
24. The Victim Impact Statement
The Victim Impact Statement is a crucial tool for victims to document their losses and explain how the crime has affected their lives.
24.1. Completing a Victim Impact Statement
Victims can complete a Victim Impact Statement to provide information about their financial losses, emotional distress, and other impacts of the crime.
24.2. Contacting the Victim-Witness Liaison
To complete a Victim Impact Statement, victims can contact the Criminal Division’s applicable Victim-Witness Liaison for assistance and guidance.
24.3. How the Statement Influences the Court’s Decision
The Victim Impact Statement provides the court with valuable information to determine the appropriate amount of restitution and to understand the full impact of the crime on the victim.
25. Declining to Order Restitution
In certain cases, a court may decline to order restitution if determining the amount is too complex or impractical.
25.1. Complexity of the Case
If the case involves complex financial transactions or numerous victims, the court may find it too difficult to determine an accurate amount of restitution.
25.2. Practical Considerations
The court may also decline to order restitution if the offender has limited financial resources or if the process would be unduly burdensome.
25.3. Alternatives to Restitution
In such cases, victims may need to explore alternative options for compensation, such as civil lawsuits or victim compensation funds.
26. The Order for Restitution
The Order for Restitution is a court order directing the offender to reimburse victims for their offense-related financial losses.
26.1. Contents of the Order
The Order for Restitution specifies the amount of restitution owed, the payment schedule, and any other relevant terms and conditions.
26.2. Compliance with the Order
Compliance with the Order of Restitution automatically becomes a condition of the offender’s probation or supervised release.
26.3. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the Order of Restitution can result in penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or revocation of probation or supervised release.
27. Enforcing Orders of Restitution
Enforcing orders of restitution is the responsibility of the Financial Litigation Unit (FLU), which works to ensure that victims receive the compensation they are entitled to.
27.1. Role of the Financial Litigation Unit
The FLU is charged with enforcing orders of restitution and monitors efforts in enforcing a Judgment if defendant assets or income are identified.
27.2. Methods of Enforcement
The FLU pursues various means to enforce restitution, as its resources permit, on behalf of identified victims.
27.3. Time Limitations on Enforcement
Enforcement of restitution orders is typically limited to 20 years from the filing date of the Judgment, plus the time period of actual incarceration, or until the death of the defendant.
28. Realities of Full Recovery
While restitution aims to make victims whole, the chance of full recovery is often low due to various factors.
28.1. Limited Defendant Assets
Many defendants lack sufficient assets to repay their victims in full, making it difficult for victims to recover their losses.
28.2. Large Amounts Owed
In federal cases, restitution amounts can be substantial, often reaching hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars, making full repayment unlikely.
28.3. Partial Payments Over Time
Victims may receive partial payments toward the full restitution owed, but it is rare for defendants to fully pay the entire restitution amount.
29. Disbursement of Restitution Payments
Restitution payments received by the United States are processed and disbursed to victims by the Clerk of the applicable United States District Court.
29.1. Role of the Clerk’s Office
The Clerk’s Office disburses money to victims as it receives payments from the defendant, ensuring that victims receive their share of the funds.
29.2. Pro Rata Distribution
Unless the Court has ordered otherwise, payments to victims are disbursed on a pro rata basis, meaning each payment will be divided among the victims in proportion to their losses.
29.3. Ensuring Correct Mailing Address
Victims must ensure that the Clerk’s Office always has their correct mailing address to receive their share of payments from the defendant.
30. Restitution as a Lien on Defendant Property
The Court’s restitution order also acts as a lien in favor of the United States against all property owned by the defendant, providing an additional means of recovery.
30.1. Judgment Lien Notices
The Criminal Division will cause judgment lien notices to be recorded in all counties where they are aware the defendant owns or may own property.
30.2. Enforcing Restitution Orders
The United States is allowed to enforce restitution orders on behalf of the restitution victims, providing a powerful tool for recovering losses.
30.3. Providing Information on Defendant Assets
Victims who have knowledge of the defendant’s assets or sources of income should provide that information to the Criminal Division to assist their collection efforts.
31. Abstract of Judgment
An Abstract of Judgment is a document that victims can obtain from the Clerk’s office to give them a lien in their own name against the defendant’s property.
31.1. Requesting an Abstract of Judgment
Victims can request an Abstract of Judgment from the Clerk’s office, which will give them similar legal rights as any other civil judgment lien creditor.
31.2. Recording the Abstract of Judgment
When properly recorded pursuant to state law, the Abstract of Judgment can give victims a lien in their own name against the defendant’s property.
31.3. Collecting Money from the Defendant
With an Abstract of Judgment, victims can collect money from the defendant themselves, providing an additional avenue for recovery.
32. Limitations on Enforcement
Enforcement of the restitution order is limited by the defendant’s economic circumstances, which can impact the amount of restitution that victims ultimately receive.
32.1. Economic Circumstances of the Defendant
The defendant’s ability to pay is a significant factor in the enforcement of restitution orders, as those with limited resources may not be able to fully repay their victims.
32.2. Assisting Collection Efforts
Victims can assist collection efforts by providing information about a defendant’s assets, income, and employment, which can be very helpful in collecting money from an unwilling defendant.
32.3. Importance of Providing Information
Providing information about a defendant’s financial situation can significantly increase the chances of recovering restitution payments.
33. Enforceability of Restitution Orders
Restitution orders are enforceable for a limited period of time, typically twenty years, which highlights the importance of timely action.
33.1. Timeframe for Enforcement
Restitution orders are enforceable for twenty years, providing a significant window of opportunity for victims to recover their losses.
33.2. Updating Contact Information
Victims must update their contact information in the Victim Notification System (VNS) to ensure they receive important updates and payments.
33.3. Responsibility of Victims
It is the responsibility of victims to ensure that the Clerk’s Office always has their correct mailing address to avoid delays or misdirection of payments.
34. The Criminal Division’s Role
The Criminal Division plays a crucial role in enforcing restitution imposed by the Judgment in a Criminal Case (JCC), acting as attorneys for the United States of America.
34.1. Enforcing Restitution
The Criminal Division will do its best to enforce the restitution imposed by the Judgment in a Criminal Case (JCC) as attorneys for the United States of America.
34.2. Not Acting as Victim’s Attorney
While this enforcement benefits victims, neither the Criminal Division nor the Department of Justice, nor any employee thereof, is the victim’s attorney.
34.3. Independence in Enforcement Actions
The Criminal Division will not seek the victim’s consent to any action it may undertake to pursue enforcement of the restitution order.
35. Seeking Legal Advice
Victims are strongly encouraged to discuss the Court’s restitution order and all enforcement mechanisms with their own attorney to understand their options and rights.
35.1. Importance of Legal Counsel
Seeking legal advice from an attorney can help victims understand their rights and options regarding restitution enforcement.
35.2. Civil Enforcement Options
If the restitution order does not cover all losses or is not due and payable in full immediately, victims’ attorneys can help them formulate a plan for civil enforcement.
35.3. Notifying the Criminal Division of Independent Collections
If victims enforce a restitution order on their own behalf and collect money from the defendant, they must provide that information to the Criminal Division and to the Clerk’s office.
Navigating the restitution process can be complex, but understanding your rights and the available resources can make a significant difference. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to WHAT.EDU.VN for free guidance. We’re here to help you get the answers you need. Contact us at 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States. Whatsapp: +1 (206) 555-7890. Visit our website at WHAT.EDU.VN to ask your questions for free today! Let WHAT.EDU.VN provide you with the answers you deserve through accessible compensation, financial assistance, and damage recovery solutions.
FAQ: Restitution Explained
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is restitution? | Restitution is court-ordered compensation paid by an offender to a victim for losses or damages caused by a crime. It aims to restore the victim to their pre-crime condition financially. |
| What types of losses can restitution cover? | Restitution can cover a variety of financial losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and funeral costs. In some cases, it may also cover counseling and therapy costs related to emotional distress. |
| How is the amount of restitution determined? | The court determines the amount of restitution based on the victim’s documented losses and the offender’s ability to pay. Victims may need to provide receipts, medical bills, and other evidence to support their claims. |
| What happens if the offender can’t afford to pay restitution? | If the offender is unable to pay the full amount of restitution, the court may establish a payment plan or reduce the amount owed. In some cases, victims may need to seek alternative sources of compensation, such as victim compensation funds. |
| What is a Victim Impact Statement, and how does it relate to restitution? | A Victim Impact Statement is a written or oral statement given by the victim to the court, describing how the crime has affected their life. This statement can influence the court’s decision regarding restitution, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the victim’s losses and suffering. |
| How are restitution payments disbursed to victims? | Restitution payments are typically disbursed by the court clerk or a designated agency. Payments may be made directly to the victim or through a third-party administrator. The disbursement method may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case. |
| What can victims do if the offender doesn’t comply with the restitution order? | If the offender fails to comply with the restitution order, victims can take legal action to enforce it. This may involve filing a motion with the court, garnishing the offender’s wages, or seizing their assets. Victims may also seek assistance from law enforcement agencies or victim advocacy groups. |
| Are there any time limits for claiming restitution? | Yes, there may be time limits for claiming restitution, depending on the jurisdiction and the type of crime. Victims should be aware of these deadlines and take action promptly to protect their rights. |
| What are some alternatives to restitution for victims of crime? | Alternatives to restitution may include victim compensation funds, civil lawsuits, and insurance claims. These options can provide financial assistance to victims regardless of whether the offender is apprehended or able to pay restitution. |
| How can victims get help with the restitution process? | Victims can seek assistance from various sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and legal professionals. These resources can provide support, counseling, and legal advice to victims navigating the restitution process. Don’t hesitate to contact WHAT.EDU.VN for free guidance and answers to your questions at what.edu.vn today. |
