What is Considered a Fraud or Financial Crime?

In Canada, fraud involves using deceit, falsehood, or other dishonest means to deprive another person or organization of money, property, services, or financial advantage. The law draws a distinction based on the dollar amount involved:

• Fraud under $5,000

• Fraud over $5,000

But the value of the alleged offence is only part of the picture. Courts also consider factors like whether the fraud involved planning, how many victims were affected, and whether it involved a position of trust.

Some of the most common fraud-related charges include:

• Credit card fraud

• Forging or uttering forged documents

• Employer fraud and employee theft

• Insurance fraud

• Online or cyber fraud

• Identity fraud or identity theft

• Tax fraud or failure to remit GST/PST

• Investment or securities fraud

• Advanced fee or wire fraud scams

These offences are sometimes grouped under the term white-collar crime, especially when committed in a professional or corporate context.

The Stakes Are High — Even for First-Time Offenders

Fraud charges carry significant penalties, especially where:

• The value exceeds $5,000

• There was a high degree of planning

• The offence occurred over a long period

• The accused was in a position of trust (e.g. an employee, accountant, or director)

• There are multiple victims or vulnerable individuals affected

A conviction can result in:

• Lengthy jail sentences (especially for fraud over $5,000 or breach of trust)

• A lifelong criminal record

• Loss of professional licensing or certification

• Restricted employment opportunities

• Inadmissibility to the U.S. and other countries

• Serious immigration consequences, if you're not a Canadian citizen

Even allegations — without a conviction — can cause reputational harm and job loss. That’s why it's important to act quickly and get legal representation early in the process.

How We Defend Fraud Cases

Our legal team has successfully defended clients facing a wide range of fraud-related charges — from first-time allegations involving low-value incidents, to complex cases involving large-scale investigations and breach of trust claims.

We will:

• Analyze the disclosure and financial records in detail

• Challenge unreliable or improperly obtained evidence

• Assess whether your Charter rights were violated

• Explore alternatives such as restitution or diversion

• Advocate for withdrawal, acquittal, or a non-custodial sentence when possible

Every case is unique. We tailor our defence strategy based on the specific facts of your case, your background, and your goals — whether that’s staying out of jail, avoiding a record, or clearing your name at trial.