Fraud Charges in Newmarket
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 Newmarket, 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.
The Newmarket courthouse serves all of York Region — one of Ontario's most populous regions. Criminal charges arising in Newmarket, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Aurora, Georgina, and surrounding communities are all heard here. York Regional Police is one of Ontario's largest police services, and the Newmarket court handles a substantial volume of criminal matters. Ryan Handlarski regularly appears at this courthouse and has secured acquittals after trial in sexual assault, drug trafficking, and other serious matters.
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 Newmarket
Criminal charges in Newmarket are heard at the Newmarket Courthouse. 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.