Charged with theft or shoplifting? A conviction can permanently damage your career, immigration status, and reputation. Get aggressive legal defence from an experienced theft lawyer who acts immediately to protect your record and your future.
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Note:We do not accept Legal Aid.
A theft or shoplifting charge in Ontario - even for a minor item - can leave you with a permanent criminal record that follows you for life. It can cost you your job, your professional licence, your ability to travel, and your immigration status. Akashdeep S. Dhillon is an experienced criminal defence lawyer who understands exactly what is at stake and fights aggressively from day one.
Theft offences under Sections 322 and 334 of the Criminal Code range from shoplifting a $10 item to large-scale commercial theft. Whether you are a first-time offender or facing repeat charges, we build a targeted defence strategy focused on protecting your record and keeping you out of the courtroom whenever possible.
Mr. Dhillon has appeared in the Ontario Court of Justice, Superior Court of Justice, and the Ontario Court of Appeal on behalf of clients facing theft-related charges across the Ontario.
We defend all theft-related offences under the Criminal Code of Canada, including:
The most common theft charge, covering shoplifting, retail theft, and taking property valued under $5,000. Even a minor conviction can permanently harm your record, employment, and immigration status.
A more serious indictable offence carrying up to 10 years imprisonment. Covers large-scale theft, theft of vehicles, and high-value property. Requires an immediate and strategic defence response.
Often treated as minor by retailers but prosecuted seriously by the Crown, especially for repeat offences. We work to pursue diversion programs, absolute discharges, and withdrawals to protect first-time offenders.
Charged when you are found with property known to have been obtained by crime. The Crown must prove knowledge. We challenge the evidence and the Crown's ability to prove the mental element of this offence.
Involves converting property entrusted to you for your own use. Common in employment and business contexts. These cases require careful analysis of civil and criminal law and a nuanced defence strategy.
Theft charges are often accompanied by fraud allegations. We handle both simultaneously, challenging the Crown's evidence across all related counts to present the strongest unified defence.
Many people underestimate the long-term impact of a theft conviction, especially for a seemingly minor shoplifting charge. The consequences can be severe and lasting:
We build a defence around the facts of your specific case. Common strategies include:
For first-time offenders, we pursue diversion programs and alternative measures that allow you to complete certain conditions in exchange for the charges being withdrawn - keeping your record clean.
Even where a finding of guilt is unavoidable, we fight for discharges that do not result in a criminal record. An absolute discharge means no record at all. We pursue this wherever the facts allow.
Theft requires proof of dishonest intent. We challenge whether the Crown can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended to permanently deprive the owner - a critical element many overlook.
Surveillance footage, loss prevention reports, and witness accounts are often flawed. We scrutinize every piece of evidence, identify weaknesses, and challenge the Crown's ability to prove its case.
If you were unlawfully detained, searched, or questioned without counsel, we bring Charter applications to exclude improperly obtained evidence and potentially have the charges stayed or withdrawn.
We engage Crown counsel early and directly, presenting mitigating factors and challenging weak evidence to negotiate charge reductions, withdrawals, or resolutions that protect your record.
Contact us the moment any of the following situations arise - the earlier you have legal counsel, the more options you have:
Don't assume a minor charge will sort itself out. Even shoplifting can result in a permanent record without proper legal defence.
At A. Dhillon Law Professional Corporation, we focus on delivering results with professionalism, honesty, and compassion. Here’s why clients trust us with their criminal defence cases:
Criminal charges move fast—and so do we. You get quick response, urgent advice, and same-day support, ensuring no mistakes are made that could harm your case.
From assault to fraud and serious offences, we have a strong track record of reducing, withdrawing, and winning charges across the GTA. Experience you can rely on when everything is at stake.
No hourly billing. No surprises. We offer clear, upfront flat-rate pricing, so you know exactly what your defence will cost—making it easier and less stressful to hire the right lawyer.
You are not treated like a file number. We listen carefully, understand your situation, and build a tailored defence strategy focused on protecting your freedom, record, and future.
Yes - if convicted, even a minor shoplifting charge results in a permanent criminal record. However, there are often options available including diversion programs, discharges, and charge withdrawals that can protect your record. Contact us immediately to explore your options.
Yes. Many theft charges, especially first-time offences, can be withdrawn through Crown negotiations, diversion programs, or by demonstrating weaknesses in the evidence. We engage Crown counsel early and aggressively to pursue the best resolution possible.
Jail is possible but not inevitable, particularly for first-time offenders. The Crown has significant discretion in how it proceeds. We fight to avoid incarceration, criminal records, and any outcome that could harm your long-term future.
A theft conviction is treated as a crime of dishonesty and can have severe immigration consequences - including deportation, removal orders, and bars on citizenship or permanent residency. Getting the right defence from the start is absolutely critical.
Do not confront loss prevention staff or make statements without legal counsel. Contact us immediately. We will review the footage and evidence, challenge the identification, and build a defence that exposes the errors in the Crown's case.
Legal fees depend on the seriousness of the charge and how far the case proceeds. We offer a free, confidential consultation and provide clear, upfront flat-fee pricing with no surprises. Call us or use our Fee Calculator to get an estimate.
6 months ago
We are incredibly grateful to Akash and his team for the exceptional support and representation he provided during a youth matter involving a close family member. From the beginning, Akash treated the case with the seriousness it deserved while showing a great deal of compassion and understanding for the challenges that come with navigating the justice system as a young person.
He took the time to explain every step clearly, was always available to answer our questions, and made sure our family felt supported throughout the entire process. His professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care made all the difference.
Thanks to Akash’s advocacy and expertise, the outcome was better than we could have hoped for, allowing our family member the chance to move forward with a clean slate and a second chance. We can’t thank him enough.
If you're looking for a lawyer who will fight for your loved one and guide your family with care and confidence, I highly recommend Akash Dhillon.
6 months ago
My experience was Akash and team was very good. Helped and guided through out the process with detailed steps with pros/cons of each. Help us to take informed decision !!
Read more5 months ago
Akash Dhillon is an exceptional Criminal Lawyer. His professionalism, in-depth legal knowledge, and dedication to his clients truly set him apart. He communicates clearly, handles matters efficiently, and ensures you feel supported every step of the way. Highly recommend his services to anyone in need of strong and reliable legal representation.
Read more5 months ago
Akash Dhillon and his team are highly professional and dedicated. Their commitment to client care and achieving the best possible outcomes is clear. I would highly recommend them to anyone seeking a reliable and trustworthy criminal lawyer.
Read more5 months ago
If you're looking for a Criminal Lawyer who is sharp, dependable, and truly committed to his clients, look no further than Akash Dhillon. He handled my matter with professionalism and urgency, always keeping me informed and confident throughout the process. His results speak for themselves - highly recommended.
Read more6 months ago
Akash Dhillon is an outstanding Criminal Lawyer who brings both skill and compassion to his work. From the first consultation, he was honest, thorough, and committed to achieving the best possible outcome. His expertise and dedication make him a top choice for anyone seeking legal representation in criminal matters.
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Note:We do not accept Legal Aid.