It certainly is an extremely stressful experience to be charged with theft offences. Whether it is an accusation of shoplifting, theft at your workplace, fraud, or even theft of another person’s property, you can face some serious repercussions. If you are in such a situation, it would be wise to seek legal advice from a lawyer specializing in theft cases in Toronto.
Understanding Theft Charges in Toronto
The definition of theft under the Criminal Code in Canada includes taking or using the property belonging to another person without consent to deprive that person of the property. Theft can range in severity from petty theft where there is a small amount of money or property involved to situations involving large sums of money or valuable property. Whether or not the value of the items involved in the theft is large or small, the theft charges can be quite serious. An experienced Toronto theft lawyer can help people to deal with such accusations.
The degree of a theft crime depends on the value of the stolen or used property, among other factors. The punishment for a theft conviction does not depend on how much money or property was stolen, but on whether one is guilty.
How a Toronto Theft Lawyer Can Help
A theft lawyer in Toronto is one of the lawyers who help ensure the rights of those individuals accused of committing theft. As soon as charges are filed against the individual, the lawyer can review the evidence, legal process, and possible loopholes in the prosecutor’s case.
Each and every theft case has different circumstances. With prior knowledge, your lawyer will be able to review all the evidence, witness testimony, videos, and other documents offered by the Crown to see whether there are any problems with the collection of evidence and whether there is sufficient evidence for the prosecutor to prove their case.
Building a Strong Defence
Developing a proper defence strategy based on the details of the case at hand is one of the main tasks of a Toronto theft lawyer. There can be a number of possible defences depending on the specific situation.
The lawyer may claim that the accused did not intend to commit the crime, that he/she had a legitimate claim to the property, that mistaken identity was involved in the case, among others. Having a good defence will increase the chances of reducing, dismissing or withdrawing the charges against a client.
Negotiation and Court Representation
Not all cases go to trial. There may be ways out of your case depending on how a competent attorney negotiates with the prosecutor’s office. It could involve diversion programs, lesser charges, or other favourable outcomes that reduce the adverse effects of having a criminal record. However, if the prosecution forces you to stand trial, the lawyer will defend your interests in court.
Protecting Your Future
A conviction on the charge of theft may influence your future more than just your current legal position. You may also face certain problems related to your job opportunities, ability to get licensed for professional practice, education options, travel, etc. A criminal record may continue causing trouble even after your case is finally decided.
Hiring a theft lawyer in Toronto will allow you to receive proper legal assistance from an experienced advocate. This person will represent your interests, question the accusations made against you, and strive to achieve the most favourable results for your case.
