How to Request Installment Payments for Blood Money (Diyah) in Iran

A Legal Guide to Paying Diyah in Installments in Criminal Cases

Introduction

In Iran’s criminal justice system, individuals who are ordered to pay blood money (Diyah) may face financial hardship due to the high amounts involved. To accommodate this, Iranian law allows defendants to request installment payments, so that Diyah can be paid gradually rather than in a single lump sum.

What Is Diyah and When Is It Applied?

Diyah is financial compensation paid to the victim or victim’s family for bodily injury or loss of life. It is imposed in cases such as:

Unintentional homicide (e.g., traffic accidents)

Bodily injuries such as fractures, amputation, or disfigurement

Semi-intentional or purely accidental crimes

When Can You Request Installments for Diyah?

You can request installment payments when:

You cannot afford to pay the full amount at once

The Diyah involves multiple injuries or large sums

You have no stable income or employment

In these situations, the defendant may submit a formal request to the court to pay in installments.

Steps to Request Diyah Installments

Draft a formal petition to the issuing court or the criminal enforcement unit

Submit evidence of financial hardship, such as:

Payslips or income statements

Rent agreements

Medical or financial support documents

Provide two witnesses to testify to your financial status

Attend a court hearing

Await the court’s decision to issue an installment order with specific payment dates and amounts

Important Points About Diyah Installments

Installments are typically monthly or bi-monthly

If you miss a payment, the court may demand full immediate payment

If your financial situation improves, the court may revise the payment schedule

In car accidents, if the insurance doesn’t cover the full Diyah, the unpaid portion may be subject to installments

Are Interest or Late Fees Applied?

No. Under Iranian law, Diyah is not subject to interest or penalties.

Role of a Lawyer in Diyah Installments

A criminal or civil lawyer can:

Prepare a strong legal petition for installments

Collect and submit supporting documentation

Introduce qualified witnesses to prove hardship

Represent you in court hearings

Prevent arrest or asset seizure due to unpaid Diyah

Conclusion

Installment plans for Diyah provide a humane and lawful way to fulfill financial obligations after a criminal sentence. With the help of a lawyer and proper documentation, you can avoid harsh enforcement like imprisonment or asset seizure and pay in line with your ability.

Alemohammad Law Office offers expert legal services for Diyah installment requests, petition drafting, court representation, and full legal support for clients in Iran and abroad.

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