Tackling debt problems in the criminal justice system: a study into the trajectories and bottlenecks of imposed financial requirements in the Netherlands

Abstract

Research has shown how debt problems of individuals involved in the criminal justice system may hinder successful reintegration. In various jurisdictions, criminal law offers opportunities to support reducing debt problems, but insights into the experiences of tackling debt problems within a criminal law framework is limited. Using a qualitative research design, this study aims to understand considerations and implications of financial requirements imposed on offenders dealing with debt problems in the Netherlands. Our findings suggest that in the pre-sentencing, sentencing and execution phase of the criminal justice system, too little time, knowledge and attention is available on how to provide successful support to tackle debt problems. Recommendations for improvement are outlined.