The Alternative Measures Program (AMP) in Alberta allows first-time offenders accused of minor crimes like shoplifting to avoid a criminal record. By completing conditions such as community service or making a charitable donation of $100 to $500 CAD, your charges are officially withdrawn by the Crown.
Making a momentary mistake like shoplifting from West Edmonton Mall or Southgate Centre shouldn’t have to ruin your entire future. A criminal record for a theft-related summary conviction can severely impact your ability to find employment, rent an apartment, or travel internationally. Fortunately, the Alberta justice system recognizes that good people sometimes make bad choices, and offers a second chance for minor, non-violent offences.
This second chance is called the Alternative Measures Program (AMP). AMP is a diversion program designed to hold individuals accountable for their actions without burdening them with a permanent criminal record. If you are facing a minor theft or property offence in Edmonton, having a local criminal defence lawyer negotiate your entry into AMP is the most effective way to protect your clean record.
Step-by-Step Process to Enter AMP in Edmonton
Entry into the Alternative Measures Program is never automatic. The Edmonton Police Service might suggest it upon arrest, but ultimately, the Crown prosecutor must formally approve your participation. Here are the steps your lawyer will typically take to secure AMP on your behalf.
Step 1: The Initial Court Appearance and Disclosure
Your lawyer will attend docket court at the Edmonton Law Courts on your behalf to request your disclosure (the police evidence). They will review the police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to ensure there are no major aggravating factors, such as violence or the use of a weapon during the theft.
Step 2: Crown Pre-Trial Negotiation
Your legal counsel will contact the assigned Crown prosecutor to advocate for your character. They will highlight your clean background, your employment status, and any remorse you have shown. If the Crown agrees that prosecuting the charge is not in the public interest, they will refer your file to Edmonton Probation for the AMP program.
Step 3: The Probation Interview
You will attend a meeting with an Alberta probation officer who will assess your suitability and assign specific tasks. You must officially accept responsibility for the offence during this interview. Common AMP conditions for minor theft include completing 10 to 40 hours of community service, writing a letter of apology to the store, or making a charitable donation.
Step 4: Completing Conditions and Withdrawal of Charges
Once you finish all your assigned tasks before the strict deadline, the probation office sends a letter of completion to the Crown. On your next court date, the prosecutor will formally withdraw the criminal charge, meaning you walk away with zero criminal convictions.
How Much Does it Cost in Edmonton?
There is no direct government fee to register for the Alternative Measures Program in Alberta. However, there are usually financial conditions attached to the program, as well as the cost of hiring a lawyer to secure your spot.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Charitable Donation (AMP Condition) | $100 – $500 | Often requested in lieu of community service. Goes to a local Edmonton charity. |
| Restitution to the Store | Varies | You must pay back the exact value of the stolen goods if they were damaged or unrecovered. |
| Defence Lawyer Block Fee | $1,500 – $3,000 | Flat fee for early resolution, Crown negotiation, and multiple court appearances. |
How Long Does the Process Take?
Completing a minor theft case via AMP generally takes about 3 to 6 months from the date of your arrest. The first month is usually spent waiting for police disclosure and negotiating with the Crown prosecutor.
Once you are officially referred to the program, the probation office will typically give you 3 months to complete your community service hours, write your essay, or submit your donation receipt. It is absolutely critical that you finish these tasks on time; if you miss the deadline, your file is returned to court, and the Crown will resume standard criminal prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will AMP show up on a criminal background check?
Because the charges are withdrawn upon successful completion, you will not have a criminal conviction. However, a record of your AMP participation may appear on enhanced police information checks (vulnerable sector checks) for up to one year. After that, the RCMP purges the record.
Can I do AMP if I have a prior criminal record?
Generally, AMP is reserved for first-time offenders facing minor, non-violent charges. However, if your prior record is very old or completely unrelated to theft, a highly skilled Edmonton criminal lawyer may still be able to convince the Crown to grant an exception.
What happens if I refuse to accept responsibility during the probation interview?
To qualify for AMP, you must accept responsibility for the act that forms the basis of the offence. If you maintain your complete innocence during the interview or refuse to participate, you will be kicked out of the program, and your case will proceed to a trial where you must defend yourself.
Do I really need a lawyer for a minor shoplifting charge?
While you can legally represent yourself, it is extremely risky. Crown prosecutors are busy and do not hand out AMP automatically. A defence lawyer knows exactly what legal arguments and mitigating factors to present to secure your spot in the program and ensure your clean record is saved.
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