Because of your lot in life and the often times inhumane treatment of the poor, your crime is not one that is tried before a jury. With begging, you are automatically guilty.

However, the England Poor Laws were designed to help those in a difficult position. Your punishment, therefore, is not among the typical punishments for committing a crime. Instead, the local magistrate, after sending all the vagrants not apart of the local parish on their way to fend for themselves, decides you simply need a helping hand. You have been a hard working farmer, and as such, need help before your life takes a more drastic turn towards more serious crime. As a result, the magistrate gives you food and provides you a job with a local carpenter, a rehabilitation policy known as outdoor or home relief (3). Aid is promised until you can get back on your feet.

Congratulations! You have received the easiest punishment one could receive. Rest assured, however, things won't always go so well…