In Canada is a life sentence (maximum time spent in jail) 25 years? What about consecutive or concurrent terms

Answer 1

Generally 25 years and less for good behavior. Parole after 25.
Even serial killers can see the light of day again.

Answer 2

Life imprisonment means that the offender will be under supervision, whether in prison or in the community, for the rest of his or her life. The maximum sentence is life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for 25 years, but this number can range from only a few years up to the maximum. There is no guarantee that parole will be granted if National Parole Board determines that the offender still poses a risk to society. In other words...they're going to jail for a MINIMUM of 25 years. A "consecutive" sentence is when more than one conviction exists the defendants two seperate punishments will be completed one after the other. "Concurrent" terms are the same...when more than one conviction exists, the defendants two seperate punishments can be completed at the same time. If you go to jail for two seperate robberies...that's two convictions with seperate punishments...lets just say 5 years each conviction. To complete the punishment on a consecutive term...you do 5 years...then 5 more years. On a "concurrent" term both 5 year punishments start together once you enter confinement.

Answer 3

Consecutive terms are one after the other, so if you get two life sentences you can expect to serve more than 25 years. Concurrent terms and served at the same time, so 2 life sentences would only be your 25 years.

Answer 4

Consecutive sentences are rarely (ie, I've never even heard of one, even for the worst crimes) in Canada. For instance, the upcoming trial of Robert Pickton, if he is found guilty, the worst detention he can get is a life sentence with no chance of parol until 20 years (probably serving multiple sentences concurrently over that time period). That being said, the crown can ask for a dangerous offenders classification which will keep the person locked up for life. This is usually reserved for repeat violent offenders.