Legal Question in Criminal Law in Canada

Re: Theft Over $20,000

Although in most instances, first offenders do not receive jail sentences, this is not necessarily so for more serious matters. The circumstances of your case would depend on a number of factors, either classified as mitigating or aggravating. For instance, theft by a person in a position of trust is considered an aggravating factor. On the other hand, if the motivating factor for a crime relates to an genuine behaviorial problem or addiction, that might be a mitigating circumstance.

Even if a jail sentence is considered appropriate, non-violent first offenders, may qualify for conditional sentences where the sentence is served in the community.

You should note that sentencing considerations may vary from province to province and community to community. An experienced local lawyer--and you should hire a lawyer--will best be able to advise you and assist you.