Edmonton Property Crime Lawyers Serving Alberta and Western Canada

1. Slaferek Callihoo – This law firm has a team of experienced criminal lawyers who specialize in defending clients facing property crime charges in Edmonton and throughout Alberta.
2. Chadi & Company – This law firm has a reputation for aggressive defense strategies and has successfully represented clients facing all types of property crime charges in Alberta and Western Canada.
3. Bottos Law Group – This law firm has a team of experienced criminal lawyers who have successfully defended clients facing property crime charges in Edmonton and across Western Canada.

When looking for a property crime lawyer in Edmonton or anywhere in Alberta or Western Canada, it’s important to choose a lawyer or law firm that has the experience and a proven track record of success in handling similar cases. It’s also a good idea to schedule a consultation with the lawyer or law firm to discuss your case and ask any questions you may have before deciding to hire them.

Property crimes refer to offenses that involve the unlawful taking or destruction of property belonging to another person or entity. Here are some common types of property crimes:

1. Theft: This is the most common type of property crime and involves taking property without the owner’s consent. Theft can be further divided into categories such as grand theft, petty theft, and larceny.
2. Burglary: This involves unlawfully entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft. Burglary can be classified as residential burglary or commercial burglary, depending on the type of structure involved.
3. Robbery: This is a theft crime that involves the use of force or threat of force against the victim to obtain property. Robbery can be classified as armed robbery or unarmed robbery, depending on whether a weapon was used.
4. Vandalism: This involves intentionally damaging or destroying property belonging to another person or entity. Vandalism can include graffiti, keying cars, breaking windows, or other forms of property damage.
5. Arson: This is a property crime that involves setting fire to the property with the intent to damage or destroy it. Arson can be classified as first-degree arson or second-degree arson, depending on the circumstances of the crime.
6. Fraud: This involves using deception or false representation to obtain property belonging to another person or entity. Fraud can include identity theft, credit card fraud, and investment scams.
7. Embezzlement: This is a type of theft crime that involves stealing money or property that has been entrusted to an individual, such as an employee or trustee.

These are just some of the common types of property crimes. Other property crimes include trespassing, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property. The severity of the offense and the potential punishment depends on the specific circumstances of the crime and the laws of the jurisdiction in which it occurred.

Defending property offenses in Alberta requires a thorough understanding of the law and the legal process. Here are some strategies that lawyers use to defend clients facing property offenses:

1. Challenging the evidence: One of the most common strategies used by defense lawyers is to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution. This may involve questioning the validity of the search or seizure, challenging the admissibility of certain evidence, or arguing that the evidence is insufficient to support a conviction.
2. Questioning the intent: Many property offenses require the prosecution to prove that the accused had the intent to commit the crime. Defense lawyers may argue that the accused did not have the requisite intent, or that they were acting under duress or coercion.
3. Negotiating a plea bargain: In some cases, a plea bargain may be the best option for the accused. This involves negotiating a deal with the prosecution that involves pleading guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a reduced sentence.
4. Mounting a defense at trial: If the case goes to trial, the defense lawyer will present evidence and arguments to convince the judge or jury that the accused is not guilty of the offense. This may involve calling witnesses, presenting evidence, and cross-examining the prosecution’s witnesses.
5. Mitigating the sentence: If the accused is found guilty, the defense lawyer may focus on mitigating the sentence. This may involve presenting evidence of the accused’s character, their family and community support, or other factors that may influence the judge’s decision on sentencing.

These are just some of the strategies that lawyers use to defend clients facing property offenses in Alberta. Each case is unique, and the defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the goals of the client.

The penalties for property crimes in Alberta vary depending on the type and severity of the offense, as well as the circumstances of the case. Here are some of the possible penalties for property crimes in Alberta:

1. Theft: The penalties for theft can range from a fine to a maximum of 10 years in prison, depending on the value of the property stolen and whether it was a first or subsequent offense.
2. Burglary: Burglary is a more serious offense than theft, and the penalties can be more severe. The penalties for burglary can range from a fine to life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the case.
3. Robbery: Robbery is considered a violent crime, and the penalties can be severe. The penalties for robbery can range from a minimum of four years to life imprisonment, depending on the use of a weapon, the level of violence, and whether it was a first or subsequent offense.
4. Vandalism: The penalties for vandalism can range from a fine to a maximum of 10 years in prison, depending on the value of the property damaged and whether it was a first or subsequent offense.
5. Arson: Arson is a serious offense that can result in life imprisonment. The penalties for arson depend on the severity of the offense and whether anyone was injured or killed.
6. Fraud: The penalties for fraud can range from a fine to a maximum of 14 years in prison, depending on the value of the property obtained and whether it was a first or subsequent offense.
7. Embezzlement: The penalties for embezzlement can range from a fine to a maximum of 10 years in prison, depending on the value of the property stolen and whether it was a first or subsequent offense.

These are just some of the possible penalties for property crimes in Alberta. The penalties can also include restitution, community service, and probation. The specific penalty will depend on the circumstances of the case and the judge’s discretion.