Theft, Fraud & Property Offences in Ontario – Criminal Defence Lawyers
Charged With Theft, Fraud, or Mischief?
Protect Your Record, Reputation, and Future Today.
Being charged with a property-related offence — even for a minor incident — can have serious consequences. At Law Booth, we represent individuals across Mississauga, Brampton, Toronto, and the GTA facing allegations of shoplifting, employee theft, credit card fraud, and other economic crimes. We offer smart, discreet, and effective defence with a focus on avoiding convictions and preserving your record.
These charges include a wide range of non-violent crimes involving money, belongings, or property. You can be charged even if:
The item was returned
The value was small
It’s your first offence
The allegation came from an employer, store, or partner
What Are Property Offences?
Common charges include:
Theft Under or Over $5,000 (Criminal Code s. 334)
Shoplifting (Theft Under)
Possession of Stolen Property (s. 354)
Fraud Under or Over $5,000 (s. 380)
Credit Card Fraud (s. 342)
Forgery or Uttering Forged Documents (s. 366, 368)
Mischief to Property (s. 430)
Break and Enter (s. 348)
Identity Theft (s. 402.2)
False Pretence or Deception (s. 361)
PENALTIES IF CONVICTED
Property offences can have long-term consequences — especially for professionals, students, and immigrants.
Theft or Fraud Under $5,000:
Up to 2 years imprisonment
Criminal record
Probation, restitution, community service
Theft or Fraud Over $5,000:
Indictable offence
Up to 14 years in prison
Immigration consequences
Additional risks:
Loss of job or professional licence
Civil lawsuits for restitution
Denial of entry to the U.S. or other countries
Even shoplifting can result in a permanent record that affects employment, immigration, and travel.
Who We Represent
Professionals and employees accused of workplace theft or fraud
Youths caught shoplifting or damaging property
New Canadians unaware of Canadian laws
Individuals with mental health, addiction, or compulsive behaviour issues
People falsely accused during domestic, employment, or landlord disputes
HOW WE DEFEND PROPERTY OFFENCE CHARGES
At Law Booth, we focus on avoiding a criminal record through strategic negotiation or aggressive courtroom defence.
✅ Lack of intent to deprive or defraud
✅ Mistaken identity / false accusation
✅ No evidence of possession or control
✅ Mental health considerations or addiction
✅ No mens rea (mental intent)
✅ Charter breaches (unlawful search, delay, etc.)
✅ First-offence diversion or alternative measures
We push for:
Withdrawals
Peace bonds
Diversion programs
Discharges
Acquittals at trial
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
THEFT, FRAUD & PROPERTY CHARGES
Q1: Will I get a criminal record for shoplifting?
Not necessarily. First-time shoplifting charges are often eligible for diversion, withdrawal, or discharge, especially if handled early. We aim to protect your record.
Q2: Is fraud a serious offence in Canada?
Yes. Fraud — especially over $5,000 or involving breach of trust (e.g., employer or financial institution) — can result in jail time, restitution, and long-term consequences.
Q3: Can I be charged if I returned the item?
Yes. Intent at the time of the act matters. Returning the item may help mitigate consequences, but it won’t necessarily stop prosecution.
Q4: What happens if I’m caught stealing at work?
Workplace theft often results in fraud, theft over, or breach of trust charges. We help clients navigate these cases discretely and work to resolve them without a conviction.
Q5: What is mischief?
Mischief means damaging, destroying, or interfering with property. Common examples: breaking a phone, damaging a car, graffiti, or pulling fire alarms.
Q6: Can I avoid court if it’s my first offence?
Yes. Many first-time offences are eligible for:
Diversion programs
Peace bonds
Restitution agreements
These can result in no conviction and no record.