Fraud Defence Lawyer
Civil claims threaten what you've worked for—we stand between you and those seeking damages.
We find the most direct path to resolving disputes while protecting your interests.
About Fraud Charges in Alberta
Fraud charges in Alberta are serious criminal offences under Section 380 of the Criminal Code of Canada. These charges apply when someone is accused of using deceit, falsehood, or fraudulent means to deprive another person of property, money, valuable security, or services. Fraud allegations can arise from complex business transactions, financial disputes, or misunderstandings about legitimate business practices.
The consequences of fraud convictions extend far beyond potential imprisonment. A fraud conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can devastate employment opportunities, restrict professional licensing, limit travel options, and severely damage personal and business relationships.
We understand the complexities of fraud cases and the technical financial and legal issues they present. With our experience on both sides of the legal system, we identify crucial weaknesses in the prosecution's case and develop effective defence strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Types of Fraud Charges we Handle
Fraud Under $5,000
This charge applies to fraud allegations involving amounts less than $5,000, including credit card fraud, benefit fraud, or small-scale business disputes.
Penalties:
Summary conviction: Up to 2 years less a day imprisonment
Indictable offence: Up to 2 years imprisonment
Restitution orders to victims
Permanent criminal record
Probation conditions
Fraud Over $5,000
This more serious charge involves fraud allegations exceeding $5,000, such as investment fraud, large-scale business fraud, or major financial crimes.
Penalties for Fraud Over $5,000 in Alberta:
Indictable offence only
Up to 14 years imprisonment
Significant restitution orders
Permanent criminal record
Potential asset forfeiture
Identity Fraud
These charges apply when someone is accused of obtaining or possessing another person's identity information with intent to commit fraud.
Penalties for Identity Fraud in Alberta:
Up to 5 years imprisonment
Restitution to victims
Permanent criminal record
Technology and internet restrictions
Uttering Forged Documents
This charge applies when someone is accused of using false documents with intent to defraud, including forged contracts, certificates, or financial instruments.
Penalties for Uttering Forged Documents in Alberta:
Up to 10 years imprisonment
Restitution orders
Permanent criminal record
Professional licensing consequences
Our Fraud Defence Process
We approach each fraud case with a proven methodology developed through years of criminal defence experience. From immediate intervention after charges to strategic representation in court, we guide you through every step while protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome.
Free Consultation
We begin with a thorough discussion of your case to understand the full context of your situation. During this meeting, we listen to your concerns, review available documentation, and explain potential approaches to your legal matter. This foundation allows us to develop a relationship based on understanding and trust.
During this meeting we discuss fees and a budget that can work with your financial situation.
Obtain and Review Disclosure
The first step when someone is charged with a crime is to find out exactly what the Crown is going to try to use against you. This sometimes takes months of diligent inquiry and follow-up.
Once we obtain the Crown’s disclosure file, we sit down with you to discuss the best way to proceed with your defence. Sometimes, this is by way of a quick resolution to a favourable Crown offer; other times, it is by proceeding to trial.
Plan the Defence
If we proceed to trial, we lay out the best defence strategy well in advance, so we have a clear picture of where we are headed.
This includes planning all pre-trial applications (for instance, to introduce expert evidence), lining up any relevant witnesses, and making critical decisions about things like whether you will testify and whether the trial will be by judge alone or judge and jury.
Prepare for Trial
We prepare you and any witnesses for the trial by thoroughly explaining how the trial will look, showing you around a courtroom so that you are comfortable, asking you practice questions so that you get used to speaking in public, and doing mock cross-examinations so that you are not flustered when answering questions.
Trial
At the trial, we stand between you and the power of the State, and mount your best defence.
About Zachary Al-Khatib
Founder of ZK Law specializing in criminal defence and complex legal matters. Former Supreme Court of Canada clerk bringing unique judicial perspective to each case. I combine rigorous advocacy with compassion, ensuring every client's story is heard. Currently teaching at the University of Alberta while maintaining my practice.
Our Testimonials
Case Studies on Fraud Defence
In the Media
Our Latest Posts on Fraud Defence
Explore our latest articles on assault defense strategies.
Book a free consultation
Contact ZK Law today for a confidential consultation. We will explain your legal options, answer your questions, and start building your defence strategy immediately.
FAQs
Find answers to your most pressing questions about sexual assault and how we can help.
Contact a litigation defence lawyer immediately, as strict timelines apply for filing a response. In Alberta, you typically have 20 days to file a Statement of Defence if served in Alberta, or 30 days if served outside the province. Failing to respond can result in default judgment against you.
Timelines vary significantly depending on case complexity, court schedules, and whether settlement is reached. Simple matters may resolve in months, while complex cases often take 1-3 years to reach trial. We work efficiently to resolve matters as quickly as circumstances allow.
Outcomes range from dismissal of claims to financial judgments, specific performance orders, declarations of rights, or injunctions. Many cases settle before trial with negotiated terms. We work toward the most favorable outcome while managing risk appropriately.
Alberta follows a partial indemnity cost system where the unsuccessful party often pays a portion of the successful party's legal costs. However, cost awards vary based on factors including offers to settle and litigation conduct. We provide strategic advice on cost management throughout your case.
While self-representation is permitted, civil litigation involves complex procedural rules and substantive law. The opposing party will likely have legal representation, creating a significant disadvantage for self-represented litigants. Professional legal representation substantially improves your likelihood of favorable outcomes.
Still have questions?
We're here to help you with any inquiries.