Theft Lawyer Brampton
Facing a Theft or Property Offence in Brampton
Theft and property crime allegations are taken seriously by police, prosecutors, and the courts. Even a minor accusation can lead to permanent consequences, including a criminal record, employment difficulties, and immigration complications.
When you are charged with theft in Brampton, you are not just fighting the allegation—you are fighting everything that comes with it: embarrassment, reputational damage, and the risk of lifelong restrictions. The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the more options you have to protect yourself.
What Is Considered Theft Under Canadian Criminal Law?
The Criminal Code defines theft as intentionally taking, using, or converting someone else’s property without their consent, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of it.
The Crown must prove:
- The property belonged to someone else
- It was taken or converted without consent
- You intended to deprive the owner
- You knew the property was not yours
Theft charges fall into two main categories:
Theft Under $5,000
- Applies to property valued at less than $5,000
- Can be prosecuted summarily or by indictment
- Often includes retail theft, employee theft, and small-value property
Theft Over $5,000
- More serious classification
- Higher penalties and an increased likelihood of jail
- Common in vehicle theft, workplace theft, and large-scale property incidents
Property value is determined at the time of the alleged offence, and even small-value thefts can lead to lifelong consequences.
Theft and Property Offences I Defend
I represent individuals across Brampton facing all theft and property-related charges. Each offence is unique and requires a tailored defence strategy.
Shoplifting Lawyer
Retail theft cases often rely on loss-prevention reports and surveillance footage. I work to resolve these charges discreetly and, wherever possible, without a criminal conviction.
Theft Under and Over $5,000
Whether the value is small or significant, I assess the evidence, intent, and ownership issues to pursue the best possible outcome.
Robbery Lawyer
Robbery involves allegations of violence or threats and carries severe penalties. I challenge the identification, intent, and strength of the Crown’s evidence to protect your liberty.
Break and Enter Lawyer
Break and enter charges—especially those involving homes—are prosecuted aggressively. I review every aspect of the investigation, including forensic and surveillance evidence, to identify weaknesses in the case.
Property Crime Defence
I also defend charges such as possession of stolen property, mischief, vehicle theft, and employee theft. My goal is always to minimize consequences and avoid a lasting criminal record.
Every case begins with a detailed review of the allegation and the evidence so that I can identify viable defence strategies and opportunities to avoid a criminal record.
Penalties and Consequences of a Theft Conviction
A theft or property crime conviction can affect every area of your life.
Consequences may include:
- A permanent criminal record
- Jail sentences (especially for robbery and break & enter)
- Fines, restitution orders, and probation
- Employment restrictions and background check failures
- Loss of professional licensing
- Immigration complications for permanent residents or foreign nationals
- Inability to travel to the United States and other countries
Avoiding a criminal record is often the primary goal, and in many cases, it is achievable with the right defence.
How Theft and Property Offences Are Investigated in Brampton
The Peel Regional Police use a wide range of investigative techniques depending on the nature of the allegation.
These may include:
Common Investigation Methods:
- Surveillance footage from retail or commercial locations
- Loss prevention reports
- Witness statements
- Search warrants
- DNA and fingerprint analysis (common in break-and-enter cases)
- Online communications or transaction records
- Police interviews and cautioned statements
If police have contacted you, or if you believe an investigation is underway, speak with me before saying anything. A single statement can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Defence Strategies I Use in Theft and Property Crime Cases
Every case has weaknesses, and every allegation must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Strategies may include:
- Challenging identification and surveillance evidence
- Arguing a lack of intent or misunderstanding
- Ownership or colour-of-right disputes
- Exposing inconsistencies in witness accounts
- Challenging video quality or the chain of custody
- Identifying Charter breaches (unlawful search, detention, or arrest)
- Pursuing diversion, withdrawals, or alternative resolutions
- Negotiating for peace bonds or discharges
My goal is to position your case for the best possible outcome, whether that means avoiding a criminal record, reducing the charges, or winning at trial.
What You Should Do If You Are Charged or Under Investigation
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by police, take the following steps immediately:
- Do not speak to police or loss prevention without legal advice
- Do not return to the store or property involved
- Do not discuss the incident with anyone except your lawyer
- Preserve any receipts, messages, or proof of ownership
- Contact me as soon as possible
Early legal advice can dramatically change how your case unfolds.
Why Clients Choose Me as Their Theft Lawyer in Brampton
As a criminal defence lawyer practising independently, every client works directly with me from start to finish. My practice is built on:
- Over 10 years of experience defending theft and property offences
- Extensive courtroom experience in Brampton and Peel Region
- A strategic, evidence-driven approach to defence
- Strong negotiation skills aimed at protecting your record
- Discreet, confidential, and non-judgmental representation
- A commitment to achieving the best outcome for every client
When your reputation and future are on the line, you need a lawyer who treats your case with the seriousness it deserves.
Speak with a Theft Lawyer in Brampton Today
If you are facing a theft, shoplifting, robbery, break-and-enter, or property-related charge, your next steps are critical. The sooner you speak with me, the sooner I can begin protecting your rights and your future.
Call (437) 998-1429 now for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in Brampton
Jail is uncommon for first-time offenders, but it depends on the circumstances and the evidence.
First-time offenders often qualify for diversion or non-criminal resolutions if the case is handled properly.
A theft conviction can prevent entry into the United States and other countries.
Most cases take between 3 and 9 months, depending on complexity and evidence.
Yes. Many cases can be resolved through withdrawals, diversion programs, or alternative dispute measures.
Yes. Even minor theft charges can result in a permanent criminal record.
Robbery involves force or threats, making it much more serious and often carrying mandatory jail.
In many cases, yes. Diversion, withdrawals, peace bonds, and discharges are possible outcomes.