Theft Charges in Toronto
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 Toronto, 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.
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 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 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.