Fines are given by courts for a range of 'low level' crimes. The size of a fine reflects the offence committed and the offender's financial circumstances.

For a person under 16 years of age, the payment of the fine is the responsibility of their parents/carers and their financial circumstances will be taken into account when the level of the fine is set.

An offender who receives a fine will be given a notice telling them:

• the amount to pay
• how to pay 
• the date they should pay by

Fines may be paid online or over the telephone by credit or debit card. You can go to the Direct.gov website to pay your fine online.

If you are unable to pay a fine, you should contact the court saying why you cannot pay and include proof of your financial circumstances. If you are unable to pay straight away, you can ask the court if you are able to pay in instalments. The court will then decide whether or not you are able to do this.