Fraud Charges in Toronto
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 Toronto, 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.
RH Criminal Defence is based in Toronto at 130 Spadina Avenue, Suite 606 — minutes from Old City Hall and the Toronto Region courthouse. Ryan Handlarski defends individuals charged with criminal offences across every category: murder, sexual assault, impaired driving, domestic assault, drug trafficking, weapons offences, fraud, robbery, and more. He has secured acquittals after trial at both Old City Hall and 361 University Avenue in cases ranging from first-degree murder to cocaine trafficking to firearms possession. Toronto is where the firm's practice is concentrated, and familiarity with the local Crown Attorney's offices, court scheduling, and judicial preferences is a meaningful advantage in every 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 Toronto
Criminal charges in Toronto are heard at the Old City Hall. 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.