If you’ve been charged with theft or robbery, the first thing you should do is seek reliable legal support for theft and robbery allegations. Theft and robbery are serious crimes in Canada. If convicted, you may have to pay a large fine or spend years in prison.

Below, learn how finding the right criminal lawyer can help when you’re charged with theft or robbery.

The Benefit of Legal Assistance for Theft and Robbery Charges

Legal representation for theft and robbery accusations is an absolute must. Here’s why.

Lawyers Can Help You Understand the Charges

You may not want to know what kind of charges you’re facing, but it does you no good to bury your head in the sand. Your lawyer can explain the penalties if you’re convicted of theft or robbery. In Canada, theft under $5,000 can result in a sentence of up to two years in jail. For theft over $5,000, the sentence might be up to 10 years in jail.

Robbery is even more serious. For a first offense, you face up to five years in jail. Subsequent offenses can incur a sentence of up to seven years. If convicted of robbery with a deadly weapon, you may face a life sentence.

They Can Gather Evidence To Bolster Your Defence

This is one of the most significant ways lawyers can help when you’re charged with theft or robbery. Whether or not you committed the crime, there is likely at least some evidence your lawyer can use to strengthen your defence, including the following:

• Your alibi (you were elsewhere when the theft/robbery occurred)
• You committed theft by accident (for instance, taking what you thought was a free sample)
• Faulty witness testimony
• Unclear video footage that makes it impossible to see the perpetrator’s face

They Can Interview and Cross-Examine Witnesses

A good lawyer can use witnesses to potentially have your case dismissed. If, for instance, several witnesses say you don’t match the robber’s description, the court will probably drop the charges. Interviewing and cross-examining witnesses can be crucial in revealing flaws in witness testimony and could lead to a favorable outcome in your case.

They Can Negotiate With Prosecutors

Defence lawyers may be able to negotiate with prosecutors and have the charges against you dropped or lessened. They may also be able to win a lighter sentence for you. For instance, in exchange for pleading guilty, you might have to spend six months in jail instead of several years.

Learn More About Our Theft and Robbery Defense Lawyer Services

Now that you’ve learned how lawyers can help when you’re charged with theft or robbery, reach out for further guidance. He will mount a tough legal defense on your behalf and fight for the lightest sentence possible. To learn more about theft and robbery defense strategies from an experienced lawyer.