Laws do not exist to punish the guilty, or provide retribution for victims. They are there to create a baseline of acceptable behaviour.

The old adage “the punishment should fit the crime” applies here. The object is to make the criminal remorseful and to understand that violating the law has consequences.

The death penalty does act as a deterrent, (for other people as well), as does Exile (transportation for stealing a load of bread). A sentence of life in prison does not act as a deterrent, nor does a pittance of a fine.

Having to pay restitution to the victim (lost income due to disability or loss of a breadwinner; pain and suffering) will have an effect for those who can afford it.