Batting, Wyman Barristers are among the top Calgary Theft/Fraud Lawyers, with over 25 years experience successfully defending clients charged with a variety of theft/fraud related offences. Our firm serves clients in Calgary as well as surrounding areas such as Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Didsbury, Turner Valley, Strathmore and Canmore. Choosing us means you receive the strongest representation you need to present a solid defence in your case.
While they differ in the elements to be proven, theft and fraud charges are crimes of dishonesty. In the context of the Criminal Code, theft requires that there be a deprivation of one’s property. The deprivation can relate to property or a quantum of funds. A fraud charge is more abstract. The subject matter will vary but the offence requires an act of dishonesty that results in some form of a monetary gain.
Both charges vary in seriousness depending upon the amount taken, the relationship with the victim of the theft, and the existence of a prior criminal record. In cases where the monetary loss is considerable, Alberta Justice’s Economic Crimes Unit will take conduct of the Prosecution. These types of offences are unique in that they are deemed by the U.S. government to be crimes of moral turpitude. As such, a conviction will result in difficulties at the border.
Our office routinely represents individuals charged with any theft offence stemming from an employer/employee relationship. Such files are viewed quite differently as the Courts construe these as being a “breach of trust” and involve consequences that are far more severe. In the context of a trust theft offence, the Crown will routinely seek incarceration, notwithstanding the accused’s absence of a criminal record.
Be it a shoplifting charge or a multi-million dollar ponzi-scheme, our office’s theft lawyers will ensure that you receive the highest calibre of criminal representation.