Theft Charges in Markham
If you have been charged with theft under $5,000, theft over $5,000, shoplifting, break and enter, possession of stolen property, and robbery in Markham, the consequences are serious. Theft under $5,000 carries a maximum of 2 years imprisonment. Theft over $5,000 carries a maximum of 10 years. Break and enter into a dwelling carries a maximum of life imprisonment. A first offence for theft under $5,000 often results in diversion or a discharge.
Criminal charges in Markham are heard at the Newmarket courthouse, which serves all of York Region. York Regional Police patrols Markham and surrounding communities. Like neighbouring Richmond Hill, Markham has a large and diverse immigrant population, and immigration consequences of a criminal conviction — including inadmissibility, loss of permanent resident status, or deportation — are a critical factor in defence strategy for many clients facing charges.
How We Defend Theft Charges
Every theft case is different, but experienced defence lawyers look for weaknesses in the Crown’s case at every stage. Common defence strategies include:
- Colour of right — a genuine belief in entitlement to the property
- Honest mistake about ownership or permission
- Lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner
- Identity issues — the accused was not the person who took the property
- Charter challenges to detention, search, or statements
- Challenging the reliability of surveillance or witness identification
The Court Process in Newmarket
Criminal charges laid in Markham are heard at the Newmarket Courthouse in Newmarket. 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.