FL S1438

Changes restitution requirements from discretionary ("may") to mandatory ("shall") for courts ordering a child and the child's parent or guardian to make restitution for damage or loss caused by the child's offense.

Requires restitution amounts not to exceed what the child and parent or guardian could reasonably be expected to pay or make.

Authorizes courts to establish payment plans when the child and parent or guardian are unable to pay restitution in a lump-sum payment based on their ability to pay.

Eliminates the provision that allowed courts to absolve parents or guardians of restitution liability if they made diligent and good faith efforts to prevent the child's delinquent acts.

Makes conforming changes to section 985.513 to require courts shall (rather than may) make parents or legal guardians responsible for restitution ordered against the child.