Theft

Legal Considerations in Theft Crimes

The most common type of theft crime in Canada is shoplifting, but there is no actual offence called “shoplifting” in the Canadian Criminal Code. Under Canadian law, theft is categorized by the value of the property involved: theft under $5000 and theft over $5000. In cases falling below the $5000 threshold, particularly for a first-time offender, it may be possible to divert the charge and avoid a criminal record through community service, a charitable donation, or participation in some type of counseling or other program. More serious cases are prosecuted through complex criminal justice proceedings, often culminating in a trial and, if convicted, the possibility of a jail sentence.

Charges of theft from one’s employer or business come before our courts on a regular basis and are taken very seriously by the authorities. These are known in legal circles as “breach of trust” thefts, and there is a considerable risk of incarceration if found guilty, not to mention the impact on your ability to find future employment.

If you are facing charges of theft or another property crime—no matter how minor the charge, and no matter whether you have a prior criminal record—you need an experienced criminal defence lawyer on your side to help you understand your rights and your options. At Cugelman & Eisen, we are familiar with the law and how it applies to your unique case, have extensive experience with the criminal justice system, and can help you understand what to expect at every stage of the process. If you have been falsely accused, we have the skills and expertise to present your defence at trial in the best possible light. In some cases, we may even be able to persuade the Crown Attorney to withdraw the charge before trial, for example by satisfying the Crown in a given case that your matter is in reality a civil litigation dispute rather than an offence against the Criminal Code.

In property crimes (as in any criminal case), the prosecutor must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We will be able to assess all of the evidence against you and determine the best possible path to an acquittal. In appropriate cases, our skilled lawyers can also help you explore the possibility of a plea bargain, in which case you may be able to plead guilty to a lesser charge, receive a lower sentence, or possibly even avoid a criminal record.

If you are facing investigation or arrest on any type of property crime, contact Cugelman & Eisen, experienced criminal defence lawyers with a proven track record of success defending their clients against theft charges. The sooner you seek legal advice, the sooner we can begin working toward the best possible outcome for you.

Cugelman & Eisen: Barrie Criminal Lawyers Who Will Fight For You

The legal team at Cugelman & Eisen has more than 60 years of combined experience in criminal defence, having prepared and argued cases successfully at all levels of the Ontario court system. They have built their practice on hard work, clear communication with clients, and an unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of criminal defence; today, Cugelman & Eisen is one of the most highly regarded law firms in the Barrie area. They work in all areas of criminal defence and handle all types of cases, including impaired driving, domestic and sexual assault, property offences, and more. Bernard Cugelman and Mitchell Eisen stay abreast of the latest developments in Canadian criminal law, which allows them to provide the most effective defence for every client. They can assist you through every phase of your criminal case, from police investigations, bail, and pre-trial hearings to trials, plea negotiations, and appeals. The law offices of Cugelman & Eisen are located at 89 Collier St. Suite 100, Barrie, Ontario L4M 1H2, or they can be reached by calling (705) 721-1888.