I received summons today advising me that I have been charged with 6 accounts of theft not exceeding $5000 from a previous employer in 2011 in Atlantic Canada. I do not know the details of the charges. I was in charge of the accounting for the company. During the time in question I was going through a very difficult and stressful time in my personal life (complicated divorce) and there were many days that I was barely functionable emotionally so it is possible that I may have made some mistakes but I have no recollection of any theft incidents. Due to the stress in my personal life I resigned from my job in 2012 and moved to another town. I underwent some counselling sessions and began to start a new life. I am now employed at a job where a Criminal Record Check is a mandatory requirement of employment. I have never been charged with any prior offences and I am required to appear in court in a few weeks. I would appreciate any advice on what my options are. Do I need to inform my current employer of these charges? And what is the likely punishment should I be found guilty??