The most common theft under offence that criminal lawyers see on a regular basis is shoplifting charges. Shoplifting involves taking items from a retail establishment without paying for them. If you are charged with shoplifting and you have no prior involvement with the justice system, you may be eligible for a program called “diversion” which will not result in a criminal record. Even if you have been charged with shoplifting before, an experienced criminal defence lawyer may be able to persuade the Crown to withdraw the case against you. If the Crown refuses to drop the charge, your lawyer may be able to identify weaknesses in the Crown’s case and advise that you set a trial date.
If you are approved for the “diversion” program sometimes community service hours are required before the charge is formally withdrawn or a requirement that you make a donation to charity. If the goods were not recovered you may be asked to pay back the value of what you took from the retail establishment.
Some retail companies send demand letters to people who have been caught shoplifting in their stores. The letters are often signed by a lawyer and demand payments of money called “civil recovery” for which they claim to be the costs of detecting shoplifters in their stores. It is important to get legal advice before paying the amounts specified in these demand letters.
If you are charged with theft over $5,000 or breach of trust the potential penalties are much more significant. In fact, in “breach of trust” cases it is not uncommon for the Crown Attorney to seek a jail sentence even if the person has no prior criminal record. However, theft and fraud offences are not always easy cases for the Crown to prove beyond a reasonable doubt. They are often technical in nature and require the Crown and police to follow special evidentiary rules. In some cases, expert testimony is required. An experienced criminal defence lawyer should be consulted to determine whether or not the Crown has sufficient evidence to obtain a conviction, and whether all the special evidentiary rules have been complied with properly.
Having a criminal record for theft can prevent you from obtaining employment, especially in industries that require you be bonded. Don’t plead guilty to a theft charge without speaking to an experienced criminal defence lawyer first.
Michelle was outstanding from start to finish. Her strategic approach in handling my case helped me achieve my desired outcome. During my consultation with Michelle she was very thorough in explaining the process, potential outcomes and really put me at ease by managing expectations. She was also very transparent with the fees – helping me plan accordingly. With my charge withdrawn, she has been instrumental in helping me put this issue behind me. Highly recommend Ms. Johal.
Steven
I can not be more grateful and satisfied by the honesty and integrity which was shown to me by Michelle Johal. She was never quick to judge and always focused on supporting myself on winning my case. I would highly recommend hiring Michelle Johal as your Lawyer. Thank You!
F R
Michelle Johal is a fantastic lawyer. She is passionate, charismatic and most importantly dedicated to her clients and her cases. You will be in good hands with Michelle and you will feel how much she cares about your case. I highly recommend her!
Maya Shukairy
I retained Michelle Johal and she has taken care of everything from beginning to end. She was able to answer all my questions and make sure I was able to get the best possible outcome! She has been of great help to me and is highly recommended to anyone.
P Y
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Amrinder Singh
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Practice Areas
Michelle Johal Practices Exclusively In The Area Of Criminal Law.
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It is located a short distance from the A. Grenville and William Davis Courthouse located at 7755 Hurontario in Brampton. It is located across from the Tim Horton’s on County Court Blvd, and is a large commercial building with ample parking. We can be located on the 6th floor at County Court Law Chambers.
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