Theft and fraud are charges under the Criminal Code, and the amount involved changes the maximum. Under s. 334, theft over $5,000 carries up to 10 years on indictment. Theft of $5,000 or less carries up to two years on indictment, or can proceed as a summary conviction offence. Under s. 380, fraud over $5,000 carries up to 14 years. Fraud of $5,000 or less carries up to two years on indictment, or can proceed as a summary conviction offence. Fraud over $1 million on indictment carries a two-year minimum. Unless another penalty is set, s. 787(1) says a summary conviction offence carries a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment of up to two years less a day, or both.
In Ontario, 633 lawyers are listed here as taking theft, fraud and property charges. Thirty-seven cities have their own page for this charge. Toronto has 149 listed lawyers, Mississauga 75, Brampton 63, North York 46 and Ottawa 40. Scarborough has 26, London and Hamilton each have 17, Markham has 14 and Etobicoke has 11. The city pages list the lawyers in each place.
The national guides linked on this page explain each specific charge. They cover theft, theft under $5,000, theft over $5,000, fraud, tax fraud, identity theft, possession of stolen property, break and enter, robbery and mischief. Each has its own definition, so read the one that matches the charge on your paperwork. The dollar amount in the charge is part of what separates the lower maximums from the higher ones. Your paperwork should state it, and a lawyer can explain how it affects the charge.
Every charge under the Criminal Code starts in the Ontario Court of Justice, and about 95% are completed there. A listing on this page is not a recommendation, and the page does not rank lawyers. It is general information, not legal advice. If you are charged in or near one of the cities named above, its page lists the lawyers there. Anyone arrested or detained also has the right under s. 10 of the Charter to retain and instruct counsel without delay.
Common questions about theft, fraud and property charges
Who takes theft and fraud cases near me?
There are 633 lawyers listed in Ontario for theft, fraud and property charges, and 37 cities have their own page for this charge. Toronto has 149 listed, Mississauga 75, Brampton 63, North York 46 and Ottawa 40. Open the page for the city closest to you to see the lawyers listed there.
Does the amount stolen change the charge?
It changes the maximum. Under s. 334, theft over $5,000 carries up to 10 years on indictment, while theft of $5,000 or less carries up to two years on indictment, or can proceed as a summary conviction offence.
What are the maximums for fraud?
Under s. 380, fraud over $5,000 carries up to 14 years. Fraud of $5,000 or less carries up to two years on indictment, or can proceed as a summary conviction offence. Fraud over $1 million on indictment carries a two-year minimum.
Which court do theft and fraud charges start in?
Every charge under the Criminal Code starts in the Ontario Court of Justice, and about 95% are completed there.
General information, not legal advice. A listing is not an endorsement; each lawyer and firm is independent.