Fraud Offences
Fraud allegations can escalate quickly and carry serious criminal, financial, and reputational consequences.
Ivy Law provides strategic representation for individuals accused of Fraud offences across Alberta and British Columbia. These charges often involve complex financial records, alleged deception, or misuse of trust, and can arise in both personal and commercial contexts.
Our defence lawyers represent clients throughout Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer, Vancouver, Surrey, and Abbotsford, providing disciplined advocacy and clear guidance when liberty, livelihood, and long-term consequences are at stake.
Get the legal guidance you need. Contact IVY Law for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case, understand your options, and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
Key Takeaways
- Fraud offences involve alleged dishonesty or deprivation through deceit, falsehood, or breach of trust
- Charges may arise from personal, business, or financial transactions
- Penalties increase significantly when the alleged value exceeds $5,000
- Convictions can result in imprisonment, restitution orders, and lasting professional consequences
- Many cases turn on intent, documentation, and proof of actual deprivation
Criminal Defence Representation
Fraud investigations are often document-heavy and proceed over long timelines. Early legal advice can influence how evidence is preserved, how statements are handled, and whether matters proceed as criminal charges or are resolved through alternative outcomes. Strategic defence at the earliest stage can shape the entire course of the case.
Understanding Fraud Offences
Fraud offences focus on whether a person is alleged to have dishonestly deprived another of money, property, services, or financial interests. These allegations may involve misrepresentations, omissions, forged documents, or abuse of a position of trust.
Most fraud charges arise under section 380 of the Criminal Code. Fraud under $5,000 and fraud over $5,000 are treated differently, with higher maximum penalties applying to larger-value allegations. Courts closely examine intent, reliance, and whether actual or potential deprivation occurred.
How We Help
- Review financial records, contracts, and transactional evidence
- Assess whether alleged misrepresentations meet the legal threshold for fraud
- Examine disclosure for evidentiary and procedural weaknesses
- Challenge intent, causation, and proof of deprivation
- Engage the Crown to seek withdrawals, reductions, or alternative resolutions
The Defence Process
- Initial review of allegations, disclosure, and financial documentation
- Strategic assessment of intent, evidence, and legal exposure
- Court advocacy through bail, applications, negotiations, or trial
- Resolution focused on minimizing penalties and long-term consequences
Common Charges & Scenarios
- Fraud over $5,000 under s.380(1)(a) Criminal Code
- Fraud under $5,000 under s.380(1)(b) Criminal Code
- Credit card or identity-related fraud
- Employment or trust-based fraud allegations
- Business, investment, or financial misrepresentation claims
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to questions clients frequently ask before working with our firm.
Fraud involves dishonest conduct that results in actual or potential financial deprivation, including money, property, or services.
Yes. Fraud over $5,000 carries significant maximum penalties, including imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.
Yes. The Crown must prove dishonest intent. Many defences focus on lack of intent, misunderstanding, or legitimate business conduct.
It can. Fraud convictions often have serious implications for employment, licensing, and professional reputation.
Your Story Matters. Let's Talk.
The Right Next Step Starts with a Conversation
You don't need to have every answer before speaking with a lawyer. Sometimes, you simply need someone to listen, explain your options, and help you understand what comes next.
At Ivy Law, we're here to help you navigate life's legal challenges with personalized guidance and a clear path forward.