Property Offences
Losing your freedom, finances, or reputation can happen quickly when you are charged with a property-related offence.
Ivy Law provides strategic representation for individuals facing Property Offences across Alberta and British Columbia. These charges often involve allegations of dishonesty, financial loss, or damage to property, and can carry serious criminal penalties even when no violence is alleged.
Our defence lawyers represent clients throughout Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer, Vancouver, Surrey, and Abbotsfords, providing disciplined advocacy and clear guidance when criminal records, employment, and future opportunities 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
- Property Offences involve allegations of theft, fraud, mischief, or possession of stolen property
- Many offences are hybrid and may proceed summarily or by indictment
- Penalties can include fines, restitution, probation, or imprisonment
- Convictions can affect employment, travel, and professional licensing
- Many cases turn on intent, ownership, value, and evidentiary proof
Criminal Defence Representation
Property offence allegations are often document-heavy and evidence-driven, requiring careful analysis from the outset. Early legal intervention can affect charge approval, resolution options, and whether matters proceed by diversion, withdrawal, or trial. Timely defence work is especially important where allegations involve significant dollar values or multiple counts.
Understanding Property Offences
Property offences focus on alleged interference with another person’s property or financial interests. These cases do not require physical harm, but courts treat them seriously due to the impact on victims and the potential for repeat allegations.
Common property-related offences arise under provisions such as section 322 of the Criminal Code (theft), section 380 (fraud), and section 430 (mischief). The Crown must prove both the prohibited act and the required intent, which often becomes a central issue in defence strategy.
How We Help
- Review allegations, disclosure, and financial records in detail
- Assess intent, ownership, valuation, and evidentiary weaknesses
- Challenge unlawful searches, seizures, or investigative steps
- Advocate for diversion, restitution-based resolutions, or charge withdrawal
- Defend matters at trial where resolution is not appropriate
The Defence Process
- Initial review of the charge, disclosure, and alleged property interest
- Strategic assessment of legal, factual, and Charter issues
- Court advocacy through negotiations, applications, or trial proceedings
- Resolution focused on minimizing penalties and protecting your record
Common Charges & Scenarios
- Theft under s.322 Criminal Code
- Fraud under s.380 Criminal Code
- Possession of stolen property under s.354 Criminal Code
- Mischief or property damage under s.430 Criminal Code
- Allegations involving business, employment, or trust relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to questions clients frequently ask before working with our firm.
Yes. Even non-violent property offences can carry jail time and long-term consequences, particularly where values are high or allegations are repeated.
In some cases, courts may order restitution, but it must be legally justified and proportionate to proven loss.
In certain situations, diversion or alternative resolutions may be available, depending on the facts and your record.
Yes. Intent is often a key issue, and lack of dishonest intent may form the basis of a defence.
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.