People v. Superior Court

In this case we conclude that the juvenile court acted beyond the scope of its authority in rescinding an order of victim restitution and instead ordering the district attorney’s office to negotiate with the hospital to discount the victim’s medical bills. We, therefore, grant the People’s petition.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

In November 2009, Lauren M. punched Kristin Feigel numerous times and caused injury. The juvenile court found true that Lauren committed battery on Feigel and placed her on probation. The court also ordered Lauren to pay $6,660.27 in restitution to Feigel for her medical bills.

*1224 In November 2010, Lauren moved to modify the restitution order arguing that she is in a difficult financial situation, and Feigel should be required to mitigate her damages by negotiating a discount with the hospital. At the restitution hearing, Lauren did not present any evidence. Rather, her counsel argued that the district attorney’s office should be required to assist Feigel with negotiating a discount. The juvenile court denied Lauren’s motion, stating that it did not have the authority to order the district attorney’s office to negotiate with the…