Being charged with fraud can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, especially if you are unfamiliar with the Canadian legal system. The allegations, potential penalties, and available defences should all be understood if you have been accused of fraud in Canada.
The main strategies for navigating fraud charges in Canada will be outlined in this blog. Additionally, we will discuss why it is essential to seek the help of a qualified fraud lawyer in Edmonton to ensure that you receive the best legal representation.
Understanding The Different Scenarios That Could Lead To Charges
Fraudulent behaviour can take many different forms and can have serious legal repercussions in Canada. Here is a rundown of some prevalent fraud types:
Tax Fraud: Deliberately falsifying information on tax returns to reduce or avoid paying taxes owed to the government.
Bank Fraud: Engaging in illegal activities to obtain money or assets from a bank, such as forging checks or stealing debit/credit card information.
Identity Theft: Stealing or using someone else’s personal information without their permission, usually for financial gain or to commit fraud.
Contract Fraud: Misrepresenting or concealing important information in a legal contract to gain an advantage or defraud another party.
Internet Fraud: Using the internet to scam individuals or organizations, such as through phishing scams or fraudulent online transactions
It is significant to note that the aforementioned list is not exhaustive and that other forms of fraud may be covered by Canadian law. There may be severe legal repercussions if you engage in any fraudulent activity. However, if you are facing fraud charges, the best action is to consult a fraud lawyer.
An experienced fraud lawyer will help you navigate the complex legal system and provide a high-end defence strategy against the fraud charges.
Understanding The Consequences Of Committing Fraud
In Canada, the penalties for fraud are determined by several factors, including the amount of property stolen and aggravating circumstances. There are three potential sentences for fraud. If the property obtained through fraud is worth less than $5,000 and the Crown files an indictment, the offender can be sentenced to up to two years in prison. However, if the fraud is less severe and the defendant has no prior criminal record, the Crown may choose to proceed summarily. The maximum prison sentence for property valued over $5,000 is 14 years. In cases where the stolen property exceeds $1 million, the judge may consider this an aggravating circumstance and impose a sentence of two or more years in prison.
It is essential to understand that these penalties are not set in stone, and the court may impose a different sentence based on the specific circumstances of each case. To avoid serious legal consequences and comply with all applicable laws and regulations, it is critical to refrain from engaging in fraudulent activities.
Also Read: How To Defend Against Fraud Charges
Elements Of Fraud Conviction In Canada
To secure a fraud conviction in Canada, the Crown must prove two specific requirements beyond a reasonable doubt. To begin, the defendant must have committed an intentional act of deception. To successfully prosecute a fraud charge, the prosecution will have to demonstrate that the defendant intended to deceive someone for their own gain. Second, the defendant’s actions must have resulted in a loss for the victim.
The Crown must show that the defendant’s actions resulted in the loss of money or property or that the defendant’s actions directly resulted in the victim’s losses. To summarize, the Crown must prove that the defendant intentionally committed an act of fraud that resulted in the victim’s loss to obtain a fraud conviction in Canada.
Why Is It Essential To Seek The Help Of A Qualified Fraud Lawyer?
When facing fraud charges, it is critical to seek the assistance of a qualified fraud lawyer in Edmonton. Fraud lawyers have extensive experience handling fraud cases. They understand the law and how fraud cases work, allowing them to provide you with knowledgeable legal advice, guidance, and representation.
A fraud lawyer can help you protect your rights and ensure tht you are treated fairly throughout the legal process. Fraud lawyers can conduct investigations and gather evidence to support your defence. They can also challenge the prosecution’s evidence, ensuring only admissible evidence is presented in court.
About Daryl Royer
Daryl Royer is a highly experienced criminal defence lawyer based in Edmonton. With a proven track record in British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, he has a broad range of expertise dealing with legal issues across multiple jurisdictions. Discover how Daryl Royer’s criminal defence services can assist you with your legal needs.
Need an experienced and trustworthy fraud lawyer? Contact Daryl now.