The term ‘theft’ is generally defined as the taking of someone’s services or property without their consent or permission with the intent to deprive the rightful owner of it. In Canada, an act of taking another person’s property unlawfully can be treated as a theft offence. When it comes to theft offences in Canada, we can divide them into two categories: theft under $5,000 and theft over $5,000.
If you have been charged with a theft or fraud offence, don’t wait for anything and consult a good criminal or theft defence lawyers to seek legal guidance. Theft over $5,000 is an indictable offence as stated in the Criminal Code. Indictable offences can lead to severe penalties that can ruin your life.
Theft offences in Edmonton, Alberta
Canada is famous for its high standards of living. Healthcare, economic and political stability, and attractive employment opportunities enable Canadians to enjoy a host of benefits. However, the country still has its share of crimes. Alberta is the leading Canadian province for vehicular theft. People take huge risks when they commit theft offences without considering the legal consequences.
Shoplifting is a common form of theft in Edmonton, Alberta. It is usually treated as a theft offence under $5,000, which is a relatively less serious offence. Large scale business fraud or vehicular theft are serious criminal offences with penalties involving up to 10 years in prison. If you have been charged with a theft offence in Edmonton, whether under or over $5,000, make sure to obtain legal aid to defend your case effectively.
What to do when charged with a theft offence under $5,000
Even if you’re accused of a theft crime that involves stolen goods under $5,000, it’s still a criminal offence that can lead to a criminal record. When someone is arrested or charged with theft, this information appears whenever a background check is run. From tough court time to a criminal record, theft under $5,000 can create serious problems for you.
Every case is different and involves a different set of circumstances that impact the outcome. If you’re convicted of theft in Edmonton or anywhere in Canada, you can receive a sentence depending on the unique circumstances of your offence. For instance, the first things the court might consider is the value of goods you allegedly stole and your pre-existing criminal record. In the case that you have breached a position of trust by stealing from your employer, it can lead to a harsh sentence. The severity of the penalty you receive might increase if you have already been convicted of a crime.
What must the prosecutor prove?
Before you or your lawyer present your defence, the Crown prosecutor presents the Crown’s case against you. The Crown must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you’ve committed the theft offence. The prosecutor has to produce witnesses and other relevant documents as evidence. You can ask the judge to postpone or dismiss the trial in case the prosecutor uses evidence without telling you about it in advance.
Whether you’re charged with theft under or over $5,000 in Edmonton, you need proper legal assistance to defend your case adequately.
About Slaferek Callihoo
If you’re looking for a proven and trusted lawyers specializing in theft-related offences in Edmonton, reach Slaferek Callihoo. We are a team of criminal lawyers in Edmonton with years of experience defending our clients in both simple and complicated cases. Feel free to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case!
