How is fraud defined?
Fraud under Canadian criminal law encompasses a broad range of criminal activities. Although there are different types of fraud, to put it simply, fraud is the action of deceiving someone in order to unlawfully gain something.
A fraud charge can have very severe penalties and therefore should be taken very seriously. Â Fraud charges can be classified as fraud under $5000 or fraud over $5000, depending on the value alleged to have been defrauded.
Fraudulent actions can include:
- Breach of trust against your employer
- Credit and debit card fraud
- Embezzlement
- Defrauding financial institutions
- Insurance Fraud
- Defrauding a business
- Tax fraud
- Misrepresentation of legal documents
- Construction fraud with the contractors
Consequences: Fraud under $5000
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, Section cc. 380.(1)(b), every one who is found guilty of fraud under $5000 is guilty of an indictable offense that is punishable by a term of imprisonment up to two years, or in less serious cases, by an offence punishable on summary conviction.
Consequences: Fraud over $5000
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, Section cc. 380.(1), everyone who is found guilty of fraud over $5000 is guilty of an indictable offense that is punishable by a term of imprisonment up to fourteen years.
Those charged with fraud looking for advice should consult a criminal lawyer. A plea of guilty to a fraud charge would result in a criminal record which may have serious consequences on an individual’s employment, immigration status and personal life.
Contact a Toronto Fraud Defence Lawyer
At Damien Frost & Associates LLP, we will advise you of your rights in the case of fraud charges brought against you. Contact our office to schedule a free 30-minute consultation with one of our lawyers to get immediate assistance.