Ontario Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Ontario – Free Strategy Session

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.

Ready to speak with a Ontario theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (909) 330-3880 or contact us online.

Common Ontario Theft Crimes

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:

• Petty Theft – PC 484(a)
• Shoplifting – PC 459.5(a)
• Grand Theft – PC 487(a)
• Burglary – PC 459
• Embezzlement – PC 503
• Receiving Stolen Property – PC 496

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.

Petty Theft

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:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines reaching up to $1,000
• Probation, community service, or mandatory theft prevention courses

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

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

• Commonly charged as a misdemeanor
• Possible jail time up to six months
• Court fines and restitution payments
• Previous serious convictions can elevate the charge to a felony

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

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:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison
• Possible restitution and probation requirements

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

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

• First-degree burglary is always charged as a felony, punishable by:
• Prison terms of 2, 4, or 6 years
• Designation as a strike offense under Ontario’s criminal code
• Second-degree burglary is a wobbler offense, with penalties including:
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison

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

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

• Charges depend on the value of property involved:
• Under $950: Typically a misdemeanor
• Over $950: Usually a felony
• May include fines, restitution, jail or prison time, and impact on professional licensure or employment

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.

Proposition 47

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.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. Key tactics include:

Lack of Intent

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.

Mistaken Identity

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.

Illegal Search and Seizure

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.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or legitimately owned by you, we present this defense to show there was no unlawful taking.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we may explore:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation as an alternative to incarceration
• Theft prevention and education courses

These alternatives can help you avoid a conviction and protect your clean record. Our priority is defending your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Ontario Theft Crime Attorney

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.

Ready to speak with a Ontario theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (909) 330-3880 or contact us online.