Being charged with a theft crime in Ontario puts your future and liberty at serious risk, and every moment counts. Theft offenses can vary widely—from shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement—each carrying potential penalties such as jail time, fines, and probation. In some situations, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that result in a permanent criminal record, impacting your life for years to come.
If you are facing theft charges, don’t delay. Contact a dedicated Ontario theft attorney at (909) 330-3880 right away. Acting quickly to develop your defense strategy is crucial to protect your rights and minimize consequences.
Theft offenses in Ontario fall under several categories, each prosecuted according to the facts and seriousness of the case. At their core, all theft crimes involve unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The specific type of theft charge determines the legal approach and possible defenses.
Some of the most frequently encountered theft charges in Ontario include:
No matter which theft statute applies to your case, we understand the nuances involved and how to build an effective defense. Below, we will explain each charge and the possible consequences you face.
Under Ontario law, petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This type of theft typically includes minor incidents such as shoplifting small items, pickpocketing, or stealing low-value goods. Despite being considered a lesser offense, petty theft still carries serious consequences that can affect your future.
Penalty for Petty Theft
Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor and may result in penalties such as:
The severity of penalties depends on factors like the value of stolen property, whether the victim is a vulnerable individual (such as elderly or disabled), use of force, and your prior criminal record. Repeat offenses may escalate the charge to a felony, resulting in harsher punishments. It is critical to consult a skilled Ontario theft attorney to help navigate these complexities and protect your rights.
Shoplifting in Ontario is defined as entering a retail establishment during normal business hours with the intention to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.
Penalties for Shoplifting
For first-time offenders, there are often opportunities to seek reduced sentences, alternative sentencing options, or even dismissal of charges. An experienced Ontario theft defense lawyer can advocate effectively on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
Grand theft occurs when the value of stolen property exceeds $950, or when the theft involves certain items such as firearms, vehicles, or livestock. This is a more serious offense under Ontario law.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, often referred to as a “wobbler” offense, with penalties including:
A felony conviction can profoundly impact your life beyond the courtroom, affecting employment opportunities, housing, and even immigration status. Engaging a knowledgeable Ontario theft attorney is crucial to challenge felony charges and minimize their long-term effects.
Burglary, as defined in Ontario law, involves unlawfully entering a residential or commercial building with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. It encompasses first-degree burglary (residential) and second-degree burglary (commercial).
Penalties for Burglary
Because burglary requires proving intent to commit a felony prior to entry, charges are often more severe than other theft crimes. A skilled Ontario criminal defense attorney can often challenge this element to reduce or dismiss charges.
Embezzlement involves the fraudulent taking of property by someone who was entrusted to manage or oversee it, frequently occurring in workplaces or financial contexts.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Even honest mistakes or accounting errors can lead to embezzlement charges, so it’s essential to hire an Ontario theft lawyer who can build a defense demonstrating lack of intent and clarifying the facts.
Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent offenses, including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property valued at $950 or less, from felonies to misdemeanors in Ontario.
This change allows many defendants to seek reduced sentences or resentencing if previously convicted under harsher laws.
If you face felony theft charges, our law firm can review your case for eligibility under Proposition 47 and advocate for misdemeanor treatment to reduce the consequences you face.
Each theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. Key tactics include:
A crucial element of theft is proving intent to steal. If we show the act was accidental or a misunderstanding, charges can be reduced or dismissed altogether.
Many theft accusations rely on poor-quality footage or unreliable witnesses. If you cannot be positively identified, we challenge the validity of the prosecution’s case.
When law enforcement violates your rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we seek to suppress evidence that could weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
If the property was borrowed, gifted, or legitimately owned by you, we present this defense to show there was no unlawful taking.
For first-time offenders, we may explore:
These alternatives can help you avoid a conviction and protect your clean record. Our priority is defending your freedom, reputation, and future.
Facing theft charges in Ontario is stressful, but it’s not the end. A skilled Ontario theft crime attorney can help lessen the impact on your life.
My Rights Law’s dedicated theft defense team has a proven history of defeating charges, negotiating favorable deals, and keeping clients out of jail.
Don’t face this alone. Trust a defense lawyer Ontario residents rely on for their toughest legal challenges.
Call us today at (909) 330-3880 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could save your freedom.
This page was written by the My Rights Law Editorial Team and reviewed for legal accuracy by Bobby Shamuilian.
Attorney Shamuilian is the founder and managing partner of My Rights Law and is widely recognized as a legal authority, frequently appearing as a legal analyst and TV pundit on national news outlets.
He has earned a perfect “10.0 – Top Attorney” rating on AVVO and a “10.0” rating on Justia, and has been named among the “Top 40 Under 40” and the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by The National Trial Lawyers.
With his proven expertise and dedication, Mr. Shamuilian is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
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