What Is Theft Under $5,000/Theft Over $5,000 In Canada?
If you have charges pending against you, it is imperative that you understand what accusations are being made and what penalties you may face. Some of the more common charges include both theft under $5,000 and theft over $5,000. These charges can potentially be very serious, so it is important that you recognize what could be at risk here.
Before you show up in court, here is what you need to know about theft charges in Canada:
Theft Under $5,000
The potential punishment for the crime depends on the value of the amount that is allegedly stolen. If you are being charged with theft under $5,000, it is often because of shoplifting or price-switching. Some people will face multiple counts of theft under $5,000 to account for numerous instances that took place over time. Even if you give the stolen goods or funds back to the person who was wronged, the charges still stand and criminal proceedings will move forward.
Individuals charged with theft under $5,000 could be facing imprisonment for up to two years. Less serious cases may be considered offences that are punishable on summary conviction. There may also be other sentencing orders that are less severe. Many people will face probation and will be forbidden to return to the site of the theft.
If the individual who is found guilty is a minor, there may be other programs available for them. Be sure to consult with your legal representative to get the best possible outcome for these relatively minor charges.
Theft Over $5,000
Being charged with theft over $5,000 is a much more serious offence in Canada than being charged with theft under this amount. This type of theft can involve stolen goods, vehicles, and even embezzlement.
You will want to make sure that you have the best criminal lawyer to help you face the charges against you. The criminal proceedings move forward even if you return the goods, just as they did with the lesser offence. However, you may be able to use this as a means to convince the Crown to drop the charges against you or at least lessen them.
If you are facing theft over $5,000, you could be sentenced to a long time behind bars. Anyone found guilty of this crime is guilty of an indictable offence that is punishable with up to ten years in prison. Some cases may only be an indictable offence with a maximum of two years of imprisonment. This is why having a top-notch attorney is well worth the investment if you are facing these charges.
Hiring the Right Lawyer
While the difference between these two charges may seem obvious, the severity is extremely different. There are quite a few ways to approach this type of case to get the results you desire. Make sure that you have the right criminal lawyer in Winnipeg who understands the subtleties. Matthew Gould has the professional experience to help you face any charges against you. Be sure to give him a call today to set up a consultation!