The client was charged with defrauding her insurance company and forging invoices. The client had no prior criminal record. Initially, the Crown was seeking a jail sentence. Waugh & Associates negotiated a plea whereby the client pleads guilty to a Single Count of Fraud Over $5,000, and all other counts were stayed by the Crown. At sentencing, Waugh & Associates advocated for a Conditional Discharge (a term of probation after which, if successfully completed, the client would not receive a criminal record). This sentence would allow our client to maintain her job and continue supporting her family. The presiding judge accepted our submissions, determined this was a “rare and exceptional case,” in which a discharge was appropriate, and Imposed a Conditional Discharge.

Outcome: Non-Jail Sentence. No Criminal Record.