Theft Charges – Peel Region Criminal Defence Lawyers

Being charged with theft—no matter the value—can have serious consequences. A conviction can result in a criminal record, fines, jail time, and long-term consequences for your employment, immigration status, and reputation.

At GS Associates, we provide skilled, discreet defence for individuals facing theft-related charges in Mississauga, Brampton, and across the Peel Region. Whether you’re accused of shoplifting, employee theft, or large-scale financial theft, we work quickly to protect your rights and your future.

What is Theft Under Canadian Law?

Under Section 322 of the Criminal Code of Canada, theft is defined as:

“Taking or converting someone else’s property or money fraudulently, without the owner’s consent, and with the intent to deprive them of it—either temporarily or permanently.”

Theft can occur in countless forms—from walking out of a store with unpaid items, to diverting funds from an employer’s account.

Common Types of Theft Charges We Defend

1. Theft Under $5,000 (Section 334(b))

• Shoplifting, employee theft, stolen bicycles, phones, or wallets
  
• Treated as a summary offence, but can still lead to a criminal record
  
• Penalty: Up to 2 years less a day in jail

2. Theft Over $5,000 (Section 334(a))

• Involves vehicles, electronics, large cash amounts, or business property
  
• Treated as an indictable offence
  
• Penalty: Up to 10 years imprisonment

3. Employee or Workplace Theft

• Breach of trust cases involving missing inventory, funds, or equipment
  
• Often prosecuted more harshly due to trust relationship

4. Auto Theft

• Includes stealing or possessing stolen vehicles
  
• May include additional charges like possession of property obtained by crime

5. Theft by Conversion

• Occurs when you lawfully possess someone else’s property but then use or sell it without consent (e.g., rental scams)

Consequences of a Theft Conviction

• Criminal record (affecting jobs, travel, licensing, and immigration)
  
• Fines, restitution, or community service
  
• Jail time for repeat or serious offences
  
• Loss of employment, especially in finance, retail, or government
  
• Reputation damage and social stigma
  
• Inadmissibility to the U.S. or other countries
  

Even a minor shoplifting charge can appear in background checks and damage your long-term prospects.

How GS Associates Can Defend Theft Charges

Our experienced team defends theft cases by:

• Arguing lack of intent (e.g., accident, mistake, misunderstanding)
  
• Examining security footage, receipts, or witness credibility
  
• Identifying violations of your Charter rights (e.g., unlawful search)
  
• Negotiating withdrawals, peace bonds, or diversion for eligible clients
  
• Helping first-time offenders avoid a criminal record through non-conviction outcomes
  

We take a tactical and client-centered approach, understanding both the legal and personal stakes involved.

First-Time Offenders & Diversion

If you have no criminal record and the alleged theft was minor, we can often resolve the case through diversion, community service, or a peace bond, allowing you to avoid a conviction and criminal record.

Charged with Theft? Act Now.

Don’t plead guilty or try to resolve the case without legal advice. Even minor theft charges can have lasting consequences.

Contact GS Associates today for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you understand your options, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.