Financial Crimes

Fraud, Theft, Breach of Fiduciary Duty, Credit Card Crimes


Fraud

Fraud charges arise when someone is accused of using deceit, dishonesty, or false information to cause another person or business a loss. Fraud can range from relatively small incidents at a workplace to complex, large-scale financial schemes. A conviction can lead to fines, restitution orders, probation, or jail, and will always leave you with a criminal record.

Fraud allegations often surface in situations of exceptional financial stress or pressure. Many clients facing these charges have never been in trouble before and deeply regret the decisions that led to the allegation. Unfortunately, a fraud conviction can permanently damage your reputation, limit your ability to work in positions of trust, and affect immigration or travel opportunities.

An experienced defence lawyer can help navigate disclosure, financial records, and witness testimony to ensure that your side of the story is heard and that one mistake does not define your future.

Theft

Theft charges can involve shoplifting, employee theft, or the taking of property in a personal dispute. Even relatively minor thefts are treated seriously by the courts because they are crimes of dishonesty. Penalties range from diversion and probation for first-time offenders to jail for more serious cases or repeat offences.

Many theft charges arise from a single lapse in judgment — a moment of stress, financial hardship, or impulsive behaviour. For those with no prior record, the experience of being arrested and charged can be frightening and overwhelming. Yet the impact of a theft conviction is long-lasting, as it can affect employment, volunteering, and travel.

Having skilled representation makes a difference. A defence lawyer can explore whether alternatives to conviction are available and protect your future from the stigma of a permanent record.

Breach of Fiduciary Duty

Breach of fiduciary duty is a serious allegation that arises when someone in a position of trust — such as a director, employee, or professional — is accused of acting in their own interest rather than the interest of those they were bound to protect. These cases are often complex and involve detailed financial or professional records.

The consequences go far beyond the courtroom. A conviction can end a career, damage professional standing, and create devastating financial consequences. Often, these cases stem from a combination of workplace stress, financial pressure, or misunderstanding, rather than criminal intent.

A strong defence can focus on whether the Crown can truly prove intent, whether there were alternative explanations for the decisions made, and whether the evidence supports the serious allegations being claimed.

Credit Card Crimes

Credit card offences include unauthorized use, possession of stolen cards, identity fraud, and using counterfeit or forged cards. These charges are treated as crimes of dishonesty and can result in fines, probation, restitution, or jail, depending on the scale of the allegations.

Many clients facing credit card allegations are dealing with difficult personal or financial circumstances. What begins as an act of opportunity or a way to cope with financial stress can quickly escalate into serious charges with lasting consequences.

Because a conviction can permanently affect employment, immigration, and travel, it is critical to have experienced defence counsel. A lawyer can examine whether the Crown’s evidence proves intent and knowledge, and can help minimize the long-term damage of these allegations.

 

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