NC S451

Expands the definition of "victim" in restitution cases to include third-party payers such as insurers that have made payments to compensate victims for costs or losses.

Requires courts to order restitution to victims, victims' estates, or third-party payers (including insurers) for injuries and damages arising directly and proximately from criminal offenses.

Adds "pain and suffering" as a compensable category of damages in criminal restitution cases involving bodily injury to victims.

Caps restitution awards for pain and suffering at $500,000 per victim for all offenses occurring contemporaneously.

Effective October 1, 2013, and applies to any restitution order issued on or after that date.