Unlawfully at large means a person is legally required to be in custody or under supervision but is not where they are supposed to be.
It can happen if someone leaves custody without permission, doesn’t return from a temporary release, or fails to follow certain conditions.
In Canada, it’s treated as a criminal offence under section 145 of the Criminal Code.
This guide breaks down what the term means, how people end up facing this charge, what the law actually says, and what it may mean for your situation.
A person is considered unlawfully at large when they are required to be in custody or under a specific form of supervision, but they are not in that location or following those conditions.
It often applies to situations like:
The key point is that someone is legally expected to be somewhere—and they’re not.
There are several situations where this term applies, and they’re not always dramatic “escape” scenarios.
Common examples include:
Some people in custody are granted short-term release for work, medical care, or family reasons.
If they don’t return at the scheduled time, they can be considered unlawfully at large.
This includes leaving a facility, police vehicle, or supervision without permission.
If a person is serving a conditional sentence, probation, parole, or living in a community residential facility, failing to check in or missing curfew can lead to this designation.
Some releases require reporting to a probation officer, parole officer, or specific location at a scheduled time.
In some cases, misunderstandings about return times, delayed transportation, or unclear instructions can lead to unexpected complications.
Yes. Under section 145 of the Criminal Code, a person can be charged if they escape lawful custody or fail to comply with certain court-ordered conditions.
The situation does not need to involve force, threats, or an attempt to flee—it can simply be a failure to be where the law requires them to be.
Although the terms overlap, they don’t always describe the same situation:
In many cases, unlawfully at large describes a broader range of circumstances.
Here are everyday scenarios that may lead to someone being considered unlawfully at large:
These examples show that situations can vary widely, and not all involve intentional wrongdoing.
If someone is considered unlawfully at large, police may issue a warrant for arrest.
This can lead to:
The steps that follow depend on the details of the situation, the person’s record, and how the circumstances are explained and addressed.
Yes, it can happen unintentionally.
Some of the most common causes include:
Each situation is unique, and the context may matter when the case is reviewed.
GET A CONSULTATION ON YOUR SITUATION
Cases involving unlawfully at large often focus on several key factors:
The court looks at the circumstances, not just the fact that a return or reporting time was missed.
If someone is facing an unlawfully at large situation in Calgary, legal guidance can help them understand the charges, what the law requires, and the steps available moving forward.
Browne Criminal Defence assists individuals by reviewing the details, clarifying legal expectations, and helping them navigate the process in a way that supports their rights and interests.
Contact us for a free case evaluation today.
What is unlawfully at large in Canada?
It means a person who is required to be in custody or supervised is not where they are legally expected to be.
Is unlawfully at large the same as escaping custody?
Not always. Escaping custody is a type of unlawfully at large, but failing to return or missing a condition can also count.
What section of the Criminal Code applies to unlawfully at large?
Section 145 covers failure to comply with conditions, including situations where someone becomes unlawfully at large.
Can you be charged for missing curfew or a check-in?
Yes, if the curfew or check-in is tied to a legal condition or supervised release.
What if I missed a reporting time by accident?
The circumstances matter. Courts consider intent, misunderstandings, and efforts to correct the situation.
What does “at large” mean in law enforcement?
“At large” typically means a person is not in custody and has not yet been apprehended by police, often because there is an active warrant.
What does at large without bail mean?
It usually means a person is not in custody and has not been released on bail—they may have an outstanding warrant or unresolved charge.
What does it mean to be unlawfully at large?
It means someone who is legally required to be in custody or under specific supervision is not where they are required to be, which can result in a criminal charge.
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