Criminal Defence · Theft & Fraud
Defence for theft, fraud, and property-related criminal charges
Property and financial offences can derail careers—especially where employers, regulators, or professional bodies become involved. Bhalla Law Offices defends clients facing theft, fraud, and related charges in Edmonton and across Alberta with meticulous attention to documentary evidence and intent.
Overview
Theft and fraud prosecutions under the Criminal Code cover a broad range of conduct, from shoplifting and theft under $5,000 to large-scale fraud, breach of trust, and possession of property obtained by crime. What often separates guilt from acquittal is proof of intent, ownership, authorization, and the reliability of financial records.
Alberta courts regularly hear matters involving retail theft, employee misappropriation, contractor disputes, credit card fraud, and cyber-enabled financial crime. Many cases turn on circumstantial evidence, banking records, and witness credibility rather than direct admissions.
Bhalla Law Offices reviews disclosure for weaknesses in the Crown's theory, negotiates restitution-based resolutions where appropriate, and prepares trials that challenge identification, valuation, and intent. We also advise on record suspensions and professional consequences after resolution.
Who it is for
- Individuals charged with shoplifting, theft under or over $5,000, or possession of stolen property
- Employees accused of fraud, embezzlement, or breach of trust by an employer or police report
- Business owners or contractors facing allegations of misrepresentation, false billing, or contract fraud
- Persons charged with credit card fraud, identity-related offences, or unauthorized use of computer systems
- Professionals—including accountants, real estate agents, and healthcare workers—whose charges may trigger regulatory investigations
What we help with
Theft and shoplifting
Defence to theft under $5,000, theft over $5,000, and related property offences, including mistaken belief in ownership or lack of intent to deprive.
Fraud and misrepresentation
Representation for fraud allegations involving contracts, invoices, government benefits, insurance claims, and consumer transactions.
Breach of trust
Defence where the Crown alleges you abused a position of trust to misappropriate funds or property, a charge common in employment contexts.
Restitution-focused resolutions
Negotiation of guilty pleas or alternative outcomes that prioritize repayment, minimizing custody and preserving employment where possible.
Complex documentary trials
Preparation for trials involving bank records, accounting expert evidence, surveillance, and corporate documentation.
How we work with you
- 01
Case assessment and disclosure demand
We obtain surveillance video, transaction records, witness statements, and corporate policies to understand the Crown's theory and your exposure.
- 02
Intent and identification analysis
We evaluate whether the evidence proves you took or converted property knowingly, and whether identification from video or witnesses is reliable.
- 03
Pre-trial negotiations
Where restitution or charge reduction is realistic, we engage the Crown early with a structured proposal supported by financial documentation.
- 04
Trial or sentencing advocacy
If the case proceeds to trial or guilty plea, we present a focused defence or sentencing plan addressing aggravating and mitigating factors in Alberta courts.
Alberta law considerations
- Theft and fraud matters are commonly prosecuted in the Provincial Court of Alberta, while larger frauds and breach of trust may proceed in the Court of King's Bench.
- Retail theft programs and loss prevention policies in Edmonton shopping centres generate high volumes of shoplifting prosecutions with video-centric evidence.
- Restitution at sentencing can influence judicial discretion, but does not automatically eliminate jail for serious fraud or breach of trust.
- Property offences involving employers often trigger parallel civil claims and professional discipline in regulated industries.
- Record suspensions (formerly pardons) may be available after sentence completion, subject to eligibility rules under federal law.
Common situations we see
- Shoplifting charges after detention by store security with CCTV evidence
- An employee accused of transferring company funds to a personal account over several months
- A contractor alleged to have billed for work not performed on an Alberta construction project
- Credit card fraud charges following irregular transactions flagged by a financial institution
- A trustee or caregiver accused of misusing funds from an elderly relative's bank account
Frequently asked questions
Theft generally involves taking property without colour of right with intent to deprive the owner. Fraud involves deceit, falsehood, or other fraudulent means to defraud the public or a person of money, property, or services. Many workplace cases are charged as fraud or breach of trust rather than simple theft.
Some first-time, lower-level matters may resolve through diversion, alternative measures, or guilty pleas to lesser outcomes depending on Crown policy and the facts. Options vary by courthouse and history. We review eligibility after disclosure is received.
Criminal court proceedings are generally public. If the alleged offence occurred at work or involves your professional role, employers and regulators may learn of charges independently. We discuss disclosure management and professional consequences as part of strategy.
The Crown must prove the value of property taken to establish whether the offence is theft under or over $5,000, which affects mode of prosecution and sentencing. Valuation disputes can be significant in cases involving goods, services, or incomplete transactions.
Related services
The information on this page is general in nature and is not legal advice. Every matter depends on its facts. Contact Bhalla Law Offices to discuss your situation with a lawyer licensed in Alberta.