What is a conditional sentence?
A conditional sentence is a jail sentence that you serve in the community, instead of in jail. Judges will use a conditional sentence only if they are satisfied that you won’t be a danger to the community and you don’t have a history of failing to obey court orders. A judge can’t give you a conditional sentence if the sentence is longer than 2 years, if the law sets a minimum jail term, or if the Criminal Code lists the crime as a violent offense. A conditional sentence usually has strict conditions, including a curfew. If you disobey the conditions, a judge can send you to jail for the rest of the time left on your sentence. What is probation? Probation is a sentence that requires you to follow certain conditions for a set time that can last up to 3 years. During that time, you must follow the terms of the probation order. Usually, that means you must keep the peace, be of good behaviour, report regularly to a probation officer, and keep the probation officer informed of your current
A term of incarceration that one is allowed to serve in the community because there is no threat to society and the public’s perception of the justice system would not be undermined by allowing the offender to remain in the community. A conditional sentence order usually involves a period of house arrest whereby one is under strict surveillance and restricted liberty. Failing to abide by a conditional sentence can allow a judge to order the person to serve the rest of his or her sentence in jail.
