{"id":5518,"date":"2020-05-12T20:52:25","date_gmt":"2020-05-12T20:52:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oykhmancriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/?page_id=5518"},"modified":"2026-08-11T16:39:06","modified_gmt":"2026-08-11T23:39:06","slug":"edmonton-theft-lawyers","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/edmonton-theft-lawyers\/","title":{"rendered":"Theft Lawyers in Edmonton"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#e2e2e2;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:calc( 1440px + 50px );margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-334.html\"><b>Section 334 of the Criminal Code<\/b><\/a><b> identifies two categories of theft:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Theft under $5,000.<\/li>\n<li>Theft over $5,000.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A conviction for either can impact career plans, travel, education, immigration status, and more for the rest of your life.<\/p>\n<p>Over the past decade in Edmonton, the team of lawyers at Strategic Criminal Defence has earned the Consumer Choice Award in consecutive years (2025, 2026), achieved a BBB A+ rating, and attracted over 140 5-star Google reviews.<\/p>\n<p>We can defend your theft charge, whether it involves minor shoplifting or large-scale theft over $5,000.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-0 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#f9f9f9;padding: 40px 50px 40px 50px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\" style=\"font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;\"><h2>Have you been arrested for theft in Edmonton? What now?<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Do not answer police questions<\/b>. Don\u2019t explain yourself or volunteer information. Say \u201cno comment\u201d if asked questions.<\/li>\n<li><b>Contact a criminal defence lawyer<\/b>: Don\u2019t wait until you\u2019re formally charged. Early legal advice may prevent charges from being laid at all.<\/li>\n<li><b>Do not consent to searches or volunteer evidence<\/b>. The police must follow proper legal procedures to search you, your vehicle, or your property.<\/li>\n<li><b>Do not contact any complainants or witnesses.<\/b> This includes store employees, loss prevention officers, or anyone else involved in the incident.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 40px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-1 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:var(--awb-color8);padding: 40px 50px 40px 50px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3\" style=\"text-align:center;font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;color:var(--awb-color1);\"><h3><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"> for a free, no-obligation consultation.<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 40px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\"><h2>Testimonials<\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-2 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#000000;padding: 48px 60px 40px 60px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5 expandable-text\" style=\"color:#ffffff;margin-right:20px;\"><p><b>\u201cCharges were dropped thanks to Mr. Haroon.\u201d<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u201cI called Ahmed before taking a plea deal under the advice of a previous lawyer. Ahmed gave me advice on how to proceed, and I retained him the next day. He took his time and became familiar with my case. He found many things wrong with the prosecution\u2019s case against me, and made sure I was aware of everything\u2026after being prepared for a trial, my charges were dropped thanks to Mr. Haroon.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"font-size:16px;letter-spacing:-0.53px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#c22127;margin-top:15px;\"><p><b>Y.D.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 48px !important;padding-right : 60px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 60px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 30px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 30px !important;padding-left : 30px !important;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-3 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#000000;padding: 48px 60px 40px 60px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7 expandable-text\" style=\"color:#ffffff;margin-right:20px;\"><p><b>\u201cSeasoned professional\u201d<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u201cAs an immigrant, my worries went slightly beyond just the possibility of incarceration but also deportation by Immigration. I knew I required a seasoned professional to help navigate what could turn out to be a double whammy, so I sought Strategic Criminal Defence out.<br \/>\nAhmed Haroon must have gone over and beyond to get me a very good deal during resolution with the Crown, one that saw the Crown agreeing to drop all criminal charges eventually.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-8 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"font-size:16px;letter-spacing:-0.53px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#c22127;margin-top:15px;\"><p><b>J.J.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 48px !important;padding-right : 60px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 60px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 30px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 30px !important;padding-left : 30px !important;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-9\"><h2>What is theft, and how can a charge impact you?<\/h2>\n<p>Theft is defined under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-322.html\">s. 322 of the Criminal Code<\/a> as the fraudulent taking of someone else\u2019s property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of it, without the belief that you had a legal right to it.<\/p>\n<p>The actions and financial loss resulting from the offence vary but, in each case, theft is considered a breach of societal trust.<\/p>\n<h3>Examples of theft charges in Edmonton<\/h3>\n<p><b>Typical actions that lead to theft accusations in Edmonton include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A retail worker skims small amounts of cash from the register over several weeks, knowing their employer will not notice until a stocktake is conducted.<\/li>\n<li>A person slips a bottle of liquor under their jacket at a grocery store and walks past the checkout without paying.<\/li>\n<li>A financial advisor systematically transfers client funds into a personal account over a period of years, concealing the transactions and depriving clients of hundreds of thousands of dollars.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>The criminal penalties for theft are outlined here:<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><style>\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n  .scd-table thead { display: none; }\n  .scd-table tr { display: block; margin-bottom: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; }\n  .scd-table td { display: block; padding: 10px 14px; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left !important; }\n  .scd-table td:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .scd-table td::before { content: attr(data-label); display: block; font-weight: bold; color: #c12127; font-size: 12px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-bottom: 4px; }\n}\n<\/style>\n<table class=\"scd-table\" style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; table-layout: fixed;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 30%; text-align: center;\">OFFENCE<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 40%; text-align: center;\">KEY FACTS<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 30%; text-align: center;\">MAXIMUM SENTENCE<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Theft over $5,000 \u2014 s. 334(a)<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Key Facts\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">Hybrid; Crown usually proceeds by indictment.<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\">No mandatory minimum.<\/p><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Sentence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">10 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Theft under $5,000 \u2014 s. 334(b)<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Key Facts\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">Hybrid. No mandatory minimum.<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\">First-time offenders unlikely to receive custody.<\/p><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Sentence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">2 years (indictable)<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\">2 years less a day and\/or $5,000 fine (summary)<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Theft by person required to account \u2014 <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-330.html\"><b>s. 330<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Key Facts\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Hybrid. Fraudulently failing to pay over money or property received on terms requiring an accounting (e.g., an agent or trustee).<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Sentence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">14 years (over $5,000, indictable)<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\">2 years less a day (summary)<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Theft of credit card or data \u2014 <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-342.html\"><b>s. 342<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Key Facts\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Hybrid. Stealing, forging, or using a credit card or credit card data obtained by an offence.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Sentence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">10 years (indictable)<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\">2 years less a day and\/or fine (summary)<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Theft by power of attorney \u2014 <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-332.html\"><b>s. 332<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Key Facts\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Hybrid. Fraudulently converting funds while acting under a legal power of attorney.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Sentence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">14 years (indictable)<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\">2 years less a day (summary)<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-10\" style=\"margin-top:25px;\"><p>For hybrid offences, the Crown decides whether to proceed by indictment or summary conviction, based on the accused&#8217;s criminal record and the sophistication of the theft.<\/p>\n<p>There is no mandatory minimum for any theft offence; a judge may impose no jail time at all, particularly for a first-time offender. Your lawyer will work to limit the consequences from the start of the case until it is resolved.<\/p>\n<h3>What are the longer-term consequences of a theft conviction?<\/h3>\n<p><b>The long-term consequences can be even harsher than the criminal penalties:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Employment<\/b>: Disqualification from finance, oil and gas, law, and other industries, as well as an impact on professional licences.<\/li>\n<li><b>Financial<\/b>: Courts frequently order full restitution under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-738.html\">s. 738<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><b>Housing<\/b>: Rental applications are routinely denied by landlords.<\/li>\n<li><b>Freedom of movement<\/b>: Probation conditions under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-732.1.html\">s. 732.1<\/a> may bar you from specific areas.<\/li>\n<li><b>Travel<\/b>: Theft can bar you permanently from entry into the US.<\/li>\n<li><b>Immigration<\/b>: Theft over $5,000 risks deportation or loss of permanent residency under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/i-2.5\/section-36.html\">IRPA s. 36(1)<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><b>DNA databank<\/b>: For certain offences, the Crown may seek a DNA order under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-487.051.html\">s. 487.051<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-11\"><h2>What happens after your arrest and charge for theft?<\/h2>\n<p>Theft investigations in Edmonton are typically handled by:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The Edmonton Police Service district patrol officers and follow-up investigators, depending on the complexity of the case.<\/li>\n<li>The EPS Tactical Response to Auto-theft Prevention (TRAP) team for vehicle-related offences.<\/li>\n<li>RCMP detachment investigators, if the alleged offence falls outside EPS jurisdiction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you\u2019re aware of an investigation or have already been arrested, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/pre-charge-legal-advice\/\">pre-charge legal advice<\/a> from a Strategic Criminal Defence lawyer will seek to prevent your situation from becoming worse and can sometimes prevent charges from being laid.<\/p>\n<h3>Will you be held pending bail?<\/h3>\n<p>You may be held pending bail for more serious theft charges. <b>Often, however, you will be released after photographing and fingerprinting, on:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>An <b>Appearance Notice<\/b> requiring you to attend court on a specified date.<\/li>\n<li>An <b>Undertaking<\/b>, which is similar to an Appearance Notice but can include additional conditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For very minor offences, a police officer may issue an on-scene Appearance Notice, with fingerprinting scheduled for a later date listed on the notice (this must be completed before the first court appearance).<\/p>\n<p>If a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/bail-hearing\/\">bail hearing<\/a> is required, you will be held for a short time at the arrest processing unit at the police station or transferred to the <b>Edmonton Police Service&#8217;s Downtown Division<\/b> at 9620 103A Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0H7.<\/p>\n<p>You may even be transferred to the <b>Edmonton Remand Centre<\/b>, at 18415 127 Street NW, Edmonton, until your release.<\/p>\n<p><b>Regardless of where you are held, a Strategic Criminal Defence lawyer will:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Meet with you to discuss your bail hearing.<\/li>\n<li>Inform your family of your whereabouts.<\/li>\n<li>Represent you at the bail hearing (usually by video from your holding cell).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>We will argue for the least restrictive bail conditions, but you may have to:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay away from the complainant(s) and security personnel.<\/li>\n<li>Stay away from certain locations (e.g., the complainant\u2019s home, workplace, or retail area).<\/li>\n<li>Check in regularly with a bail supervisor or police officer.<\/li>\n<li>Reside at a specific address and notify the court of any change.<\/li>\n<li>Abide by a curfew or house arrest (in serious cases).<\/li>\n<li>Surrender your passport and remain in the jurisdiction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We will ensure you understand all of your bail conditions so that you don\u2019t inadvertently breach them and land an additional criminal charge.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-12\"><h2>How could my theft case be resolved?<\/h2>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/trial-lawyers\/\">criminal trial<\/a> is necessary only in a minority of theft cases.<\/p>\n<p>The greater the value of the theft and the more prior offences on the accused&#8217;s record, the more likely a trial becomes.<\/p>\n<p><b>For first-time offenders and minor offences especially, there is a good chance the case will be resolved through a pre-trial resolution, including:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/alternative-measures-program\/\"><b>Alternative Measures Program (AMP)<\/b><\/a>: First-time, minor theft under $5,000. Community service, restitution, or donation. Charges withdrawn; no record.<\/li>\n<li><b>Restitution order<\/b>: Full repayment of the stolen property&#8217;s value to the victim. Reduces the likelihood of custody, particularly for first-time offenders.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/criminal-discharge\/\"><b>Conditional discharge<\/b><\/a>: First-time offenders, minor theft only. Complete probation conditions. No conviction registered; record purged after probation ends.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/peace-bond\/\"><b>Peace bond (s. 810)<\/b><\/a>: Charges withdrawn in exchange for a court order to keep the peace for up to 12 months. No conviction; may appear on background checks for up to one year.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/mental-health-diversion\/\"><b>Mental Health Diversion<\/b><\/a>: Where a diagnosed mental health condition or addiction directly contributed to the theft. Complete a treatment or counselling plan. Charges withdrawn; no record.<\/li>\n<li><b>Indigenous Restorative Justice<\/b>: Indigenous accused charged with theft offences. Complete a culturally relevant healing or justice plan. Charges withdrawn or sentence reduced.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Charge withdrawal is also possible where the Crown&#8217;s evidence is weak, the search or seizure was unlawful, or prosecution is not in the public interest.<\/p>\n<p>We will know more (and advise you accordingly) after we have a full understanding of the evidence and discussed it with the Crown Prosecutor assigned to your case.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-13\"><h2>What are the main defences for theft?<\/h2>\n<p>Your lawyer will scrutinise the Crown\u2019s evidence from the disclosure package obtained after the first appearance.<\/p>\n<p><b>Based on our careful analysis and any additional evidence that supports your version of events, we will select one of the following defences:<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><style>\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n  .scd-table thead { display: none; }\n  .scd-table tr { display: block; margin-bottom: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; }\n  .scd-table td { display: block; padding: 10px 14px; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left !important; }\n  .scd-table td:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .scd-table td::before { content: attr(data-label); display: block; font-weight: bold; color: #c12127; font-size: 12px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-bottom: 4px; }\n}\n<\/style>\n<table class=\"scd-table\" style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; table-layout: fixed;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 25%; text-align: center;\">DEFENCE<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 75%; text-align: center;\">HOW IT WORKS<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Colour of Right<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"How It Works\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">You had an honest belief, even if factually wrong, that you had a legal right to the property. The belief need not be reasonable, but must be sincere.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Lack of Intent<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"How It Works\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Theft requires fraudulent intent to deprive the owner of their property. An accidental taking, such as forgetting to pay for an item, does not meet that threshold.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Mistaken Identity\/Alibi<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"How It Works\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">You were not the person who committed the offence. CCTV footage, GPS data, or witness testimony can establish you were not at the scene.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Intention to Return<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"How It Works\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">You took the item with a genuine and immediate plan to return it intact. Theft requires an intent to deprive permanently.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Necessity\/Duress<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"How It Works\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">You were forced to steal to avoid immediate peril or a direct threat of bodily harm, with no reasonable legal alternative available.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Charter Violations<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"How It Works\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Evidence obtained through an unlawful search or in breach of your right to counsel may be excluded, weakening or collapsing the Crown's case.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-14\"><h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">#accordion-5518-1 .fusion-panel:hover, #accordion-5518-1 .fusion-panel.hover{ background-color: #f4f5f7 } #accordion-5518-1 .fusion-panel { border-color:var(--awb-color2); border-width:0px; background-color:var(--awb-color2); }.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: #c22127;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box:before{ font-size: 16px; width: 16px;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1.fusion-toggle-icon-right .fusion-toggle-heading{ margin-right: 34px;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-title a{font-size:21px;color:#c22127;font-family:\"Lexend\";font-weight:700;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .toggle-content{font-size:17px;color:#000000;font-family:\"Lexend\";font-weight:300;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-title a:not(.active):hover, #accordion-5518-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a { color: #c22127;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: #c22127;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1.fusion-toggle-icon-unboxed .fusion-panel .panel-title a:not(.active):hover .fa-fusion-box{ color: #c22127 !important;}<\/style><div class=\"accordian fusion-accordian\"><div class=\"panel-group fusion-toggle-icon-right fusion-toggle-icon-unboxed\" id=\"accordion-5518-1\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-e5fa2281790922708 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-e5fa2281790922708 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-e5fa2281790922708 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e5fa2281790922708\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-5518-1\" data-target=\"#e5fa2281790922708\" href=\"#e5fa2281790922708\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Is shoplifting different from other theft charges?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"e5fa2281790922708\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>No. Shoplifting is prosecuted under the same theft provisions of the Criminal Code as any other theft. The value of the goods determines whether it proceeds as theft under or over $5,000, with the same potential penalties applying.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-783b405fc8106d084 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-783b405fc8106d084 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-783b405fc8106d084 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"783b405fc8106d084\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-5518-1\" data-target=\"#783b405fc8106d084\" href=\"#783b405fc8106d084\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">When is the value too small for the Crown to prosecute?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"783b405fc8106d084\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>There is no formal minimum value threshold for a theft charge in Canada. However, for very low-value thefts involving first-time offenders, the Crown may exercise its discretion not to prosecute if doing so is not in the public interest.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-8575478cd397c559c .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-8575478cd397c559c .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-8575478cd397c559c fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"8575478cd397c559c\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-5518-1\" data-target=\"#8575478cd397c559c\" href=\"#8575478cd397c559c\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">If I give the item back, can I still be charged with theft?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"8575478cd397c559c\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Yes. Returning stolen property does not undo the offence. Theft is complete at the moment the item is taken with fraudulent intent. Returning the item may, however, influence sentencing or support a pre-trial resolution such as a conditional discharge.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-e35cf19750bd2f745 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-e35cf19750bd2f745 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-e35cf19750bd2f745 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e35cf19750bd2f745\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-5518-1\" data-target=\"#e35cf19750bd2f745\" href=\"#e35cf19750bd2f745\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Can I be charged with theft if I was present but did not take anything?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"e35cf19750bd2f745\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Possibly. If you assisted, encouraged, or aided another person in committing theft, you may be charged as a party to the offence under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/C-46\/section-21.html\">s. 21 of the Criminal Code<\/a>, even if you never personally took anything.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-96d0c66356202e48e .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-5518-1 .panel-96d0c66356202e48e .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-96d0c66356202e48e fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"96d0c66356202e48e\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-5518-1\" data-target=\"#96d0c66356202e48e\" href=\"#96d0c66356202e48e\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">What is the difference between theft, fraud, and robbery?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"96d0c66356202e48e\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Theft is the taking of property without consent. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/fraud-lawyers\/\">Fraud<\/a> involves deceiving someone into voluntarily parting with property or money. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/property-crime-lawyers\/\">Robbery<\/a> is theft combined with violence or the threat of violence. Each is a distinct offence carrying different penalties under the Criminal Code.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-15\"><h2>Get help with theft charges in Edmonton<\/h2>\n<p><b>If you\u2019ve been charged with theft in Edmonton, a lawyer from Strategic Criminal Defence<\/b> <b>will:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Review the specific facts of your case.<\/li>\n<li>Assess the strength of the Crown&#8217;s evidence.<\/li>\n<li>Build a defence strategy tailored to your charge.<\/li>\n<li>Discuss pre-trial resolutions with the prosecution.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare for trial if necessary.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Our theft lawyers provide clear guidance, strong defence strategies, and dedicated support to help protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-4 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:var(--awb-color8);padding: 40px 50px 40px 50px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-16\" style=\"text-align:center;font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;color:var(--awb-color1);\"><h3><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"> for a free, no-obligation consultation.<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 40px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-5 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column cases grey-box\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#f9f9f9;padding: 25px 50px 25px 50px;\"><div ><style>.fusion-imageframe.imageframe-1{ margin-bottom : 25px;}<\/style><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-1 hover-type-none\" style=\"border-radius:8px;max-width:100px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/michael-oykhman-thumb.jpg\" alt class=\"img-responsive\"\/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-17\" style=\"font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;\"><p><strong>Verified By: Michael Oykhman, Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-1{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0px!important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-1{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:10px!important; margin-left:0px!important;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-1 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:15px;margin-left:0px;\"><div class=\"title-heading-left title-heading-tag fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"margin:0;--fontSize:18;line-height:1.618;\">Last Modified: August 11, 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-18\" style=\"font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;\"><p>Michael Oykhman is a senior criminal defence lawyer and the founder of Strategic Criminal Defence, a leading firm with offices across Western Canada and Ontario. With nearly 20 years of legal experience, he has appeared at all levels of court in Alberta, including the Supreme Court of Canada, and has successfully defended thousands of clients.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Experience<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Proven Results:<\/strong> Successfully managed over 10,000 criminal cases, experience in complex matters such as impaired driving, domestic violence, and sexual assault.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategic Problem Solver:<\/strong> Trained as a trial lawyer but recognized for his experience in alternative resolution strategies, often securing the best outcomes for clients without a case ever going to trial.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Multi-Jurisdictional Authority:<\/strong> Licensed to practice law in Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Education &amp; Academic Leadership<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Education:<\/strong> Holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Calgary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Academic Distinctions:<\/strong> Recipient of the Crown Association Prize (top grade in criminal law) and was the first-ever finalist for the University of Calgary at the Gale Cup Moot.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Teaching &amp; Mentorship:<\/strong> Currently serves as the Advising Lawyer for Student Legal Assistance and is a sessional instructor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law, teaching Advanced Criminal\/Constitutional Appellate Advocacy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Credentials &amp; Recognition<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Top-Rated Advocacy:<\/strong> An 8-time recipient of the Three Best Rated\u00ae Top Criminal Defence Lawyer of the Year award in Calgary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Professional Memberships:<\/strong> Active member of the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA) and the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association (CDLA) of Calgary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Connect with Michael:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/michael-oykhman\/\">Bio<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/linkedin.com\/in\/michael-oykhman-90002335?originalSubdomain=ca\">LinkedIn<\/a> | <strong>Firm Office:<\/strong> (403) 719-6410<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-5{width:100% !important;margin-top : 25px;margin-bottom : 25px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 25px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 25px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-5{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-5{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 30px;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-1{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A theft charge should never be treated as a \u201cminor\u201d offence if it results in a criminal record. The alleged theft of even a small amount of money or property can impact your life well beyond the immediate criminal penalties. Talk to a Strategic Criminal Defence theft lawyer to begin work on limiting the consequences.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":51332,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5518","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Theft Lawyers Edmonton | Strategic Criminal Defence<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you have been charged with Theft in Edmonton, contact our experienced and dedicated legal team. We will fight for your rights!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/edmonton-theft-lawyers\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Theft Lawyers Edmonton | Strategic Criminal Defence\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"If you have been charged with Theft in Edmonton, contact our experienced and dedicated legal team. 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