State v. Wilkinson

OPINION

McGREGOR, Vice Chief Justice.

¶ 1 We granted review to consider whether and to what extent the courts can order restitution for victims of an unlicensed contractor who performs incomplete and faulty work. We conclude that a trial court may award restitution when and to the extent that the criminal act of contracting without a license directly causes a victim’s economic loss.

I

¶2 John R. Porter, representing himself to be a licensed contractor, separately contracted with T.S. and N.L. (the victims) to perform remodeling work on their homes. T.S. purchased needed materials and paid Porter…