5. Learn about mandatory minimum sentences
Question & Answer
What sentences might I get in my criminal case?Some criminal offences have a specific type or length of that must be given. These are minimum sentences that the government has decided is appropriate for a particular crime. The Criminal Code will say if a mandatory minimum sentence applies.
Some examples of crimes with mandatory minimum sentences are:
- care and control/over 80
- importing certain drugs
- certain drug offences committed by someone previously (within the last 10 years) of serious drug offences
- selling drugs in or near a school
- murder
Where a mandatory minimum sentence doesn’t apply, the judge decides your sentence based on:
- suggestions by your lawyer and the Crown at the sentencing hearing
- sentencing principles in the Criminal Code
- the sentences other people have received in similar circumstances
