In Alberta, property offences, including theft and related offences, are primarily governed by the Criminal Code of Canada. Alberta follows Canadian federal law when it comes to property offences, and the Criminal Code sets out the framework for these offences. Here are some key aspects of property offences in Alberta:
* Theft: Theft is a property offense that involves unlawfully taking or converting another person’s property or services with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of them. The Criminal Code classifies theft into different categories based on the value of the stolen property. The penalties for theft vary accordingly.
* Break and Enter: Break and enter offences involve unlawfully entering a building or property with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft. The severity of the offense can depend on factors such as whether the building was a residence, whether violence or weapons were involved, and the intent of the person entering.
* Robbery: Robbery is a more serious offense that involves theft with the use or threat of violence or the use of a weapon. It is considered a violent property offense and carries harsher penalties then simple theft.
* Possession of Stolen Goods: Possession of stolen goods involves knowingly having or controlling property that was obtained through theft or other criminal means. This offense does not require active participation in the theft but can lead to criminal charges.
* Fraud: Fraud offences involve dishonestly deceiving someone for personal gain, typically financially. This can include various forms of financial fraud, such as credit card fraud, identity theft, and large-scale commercial fraud.
* Burglary: Burglary is a property offense that typically involves unlawfully entering a building or property with the intent to commit theft, vandalism, or other criminal activities. It is similar to break and enter but may involve different circumstances.
* Penalties: The penalties for property offences in Alberta can vary widely depending on factors such as the nature and severity of the offense, the value of the stolen property, any use of violence or weapons, and an individual’s criminal history. Penalties may include fines, probation, community service, restitution to the victim, and imprisonment.
* Defences: Defences against property offences may include lack of intent, honest belief in ownership, mistake of fact, or procedural errors. An experienced criminal defence defence lawyer can help build a strong defence strategy.
It’s important to consult with a qualified criminal defence lawyer from our office at Smyllie Law in Alberta if you are facing property offense charges. We can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure that you understand the legal implications and potential penalties associated with your case.
We have experience representing clients who have previous criminal history of theft or other criminal offences. In such situations, there may be mandatory unavoidable penalties. If you are facing repeat offences, do not give up hope and do not attempt to fight these charges alone. With our years of experience in this area, we may be able to help you avoid a severe sentence. We will work with you to protect your long-term interest through diligent negotiation with the Crown. It pays to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer on your options, some you may not even know you had.
At Smyllie Law in Alberta, we offer a client-focused approach to tackle your legal challenges:
WhatsApp us