Straffebøter

Straffebøter, often translated as "fines" or "penalties" in English, are a common form of punishment in Danish law. They are typically imposed for less serious offenses, such as minor traffic violations, petty theft, or certain administrative breaches. The primary purpose of a straffebøde is to penalize the offender financially rather than through imprisonment.

The amount of a straffebøde is usually determined by a set scale or guideline, taking into account the severity of the offense and the offender's financial capacity. In some cases, particularly for traffic offenses, the fine can be a fixed sum. For more complex offenses, a judge may determine the specific amount, often calculated as a number of days' fine, where the value of each day's fine is adjusted based on the offender's income.

Straffebøder can be paid directly or, in some instances, can lead to alternative sanctions if not paid. Failure to pay a straffebøde can result in additional penalties, which may include community service or, in more severe cases, a short period of imprisonment. The system aims to provide a proportionate and efficient response to minor criminal activity, encouraging compliance with the law without overburdening the correctional system.