Oshawa Lawyers Defending Fraud Charges

In the Criminal Code of Canada, fraud is committed when a person “by deceit falsehood or other fraudulent means … defrauds the public or any person, whether ascertained or not, of any property, money or valuable security or any service.” One of the largest areas of fraud is credit card fraud, which can involve creating fake credit cards, using someone else’s credit card information and unauthorized possession of a credit card.

Like theft, fraud is divided into two possible charges: Fraud Under $5000 and Fraud Over $5000. The difference is the value of the property or money defrauded and the potential punishments. A conviction on a Fraud Over $5000 charge can result in a maximum jail sentence of 14 years.

Experienced Defence Against Credit Card Fraud Charges

The penalties that accompany a fraud conviction are quite serious, including large fines and up to 14 years in jail. A conviction can also have significant immigration consequences, impacting your ability to cross the border into the United States, and employment consequences. If you defraud your employer, you could go to jail for a long time. Depending on the amount defrauded, you may be facing a mandatory minimum jail sentence. You may also be required to pay restitution.

This area of the law is quite complicated and can be quite technical. Depending on the seriousness of the case, it may be possible to obtain a non-custodial sentence, such as probation or diversion or to have the charges completely withdrawn. It is important that you obtain the legal advice of a lawyer with skill and experience defending fraud charges. At Barrison & Manitius, our lawyers will meet with you to discuss the details of your charge and will take the time to fully understand the facts of your case. We will fight for your rights and work to achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact Fraud Defence Lawyers Serving Pickering, Ajax and Whitby

We take the steps needed to protect your best interests, both immediate and long term. We maintain a 24-hour emergency service line, and our office is within steps of the Durham Consolidated Courthouse. Contact us online or at 905-404-1947 to speak with an experienced criminal defence lawyer about your fraud charge. We offer a free initial consultation to all prospective clients.