Fraud Charges in Burlington
If you have been charged with fraud over and under $5,000, breach of trust, identity fraud, mortgage fraud, credit card fraud, and forgery in Burlington, the consequences are serious. Fraud under $5,000 carries a maximum of 2 years imprisonment. Fraud over $5,000 carries a maximum of 14 years. Fraud over $1,000,000 carries a mandatory minimum of 2 years imprisonment. Restitution orders are common.
Burlington residents charged with criminal offences will typically have their cases heard at the Milton courthouse, which serves all of Halton Region. For some matters, cases may also be directed to the John Sopinka Courthouse in Hamilton. Halton Regional Police patrols Burlington, and common charges include impaired driving, domestic assault, and fraud. An experienced defence lawyer familiar with both the Milton and Hamilton courts can advise on the best approach for your case.
How We Defend Fraud Charges
Every fraud case is different, but experienced defence lawyers look for weaknesses in the Crown’s case at every stage. Common defence strategies include:
- Lack of intent — no dishonest purpose or plan to defraud
- Honest mistake or misunderstanding of the transaction
- Mistaken identity — the accused was not the person responsible
- Consent of the property owner to the use of funds or property
- Charter breaches in the police investigation or search
- Challenging the Crown's proof of deprivation or risk of deprivation
The Court Process in Milton
Criminal charges laid in Burlington are heard at the Milton Courthouse in Milton. Your first appearance will typically be scheduled within a few weeks of being charged. At that appearance, your lawyer will receive disclosure (the Crown’s evidence against you) and begin assessing the strength of the case.