top of page
Courtroom Interior View

Fraud Under $5,000 - Ontario Criminal Charges

Facing a Fraud Under $5,000 charge in Ontario? Get clear legal guidance focused on protecting your rights, your record, and your future.

Speak With a Licensed Paralegal
Type of Offence
fraud-under-5000$.webp

What Is Fraud Under $5,000?

Fraud Under $5,000 is charged under section 380(1)(b) of the Criminal Code of Canada. It applies when a person, through deceit, falsehood, or other fraudulent means, causes another person or entity to suffer a financial loss (or risk of loss) under $5,000.

    • Cheque or e-transfer fraud

    • Misrepresentation in a sale or transaction

    • Credit/debit card misuse

    • Employment or insurance-related misrepresentation

    • Rental or deposit-related fraud

Fraud Under $5,000 is a hybrid offence. When the Crown proceeds by summary conviction, this is a matter Vertex Legal Solutions PC can represent you on.

68f0207f-64bb-48c0-99ca-226528e535f6.png

Potential Consequences

  • Criminal record, which can significantly affect employment (especially in finance, banking, or positions of trust), travel, and licensing

  • Restitution orders requiring repayment of the loss

  • Fines

  • Probation, often with conditions related to contact or financial activity

  • Jail time - up to 2 years less a day on summary conviction

  • Discharge or diversion, where appropriate, particularly for first-time offenders

Because fraud convictions can carry a stigma tied to honesty and trustworthiness, protecting your record in these cases is often a top priority.

b8970295-a313-4d54-89ca-97807fb1dc08.png

How Vertex Legal Solutions PC Can Help

Fraud allegations often hinge on intent - the difference between a genuine misunderstanding or business dispute and a criminal act can be significant, and it’s not always obvious to police or the Crown at the outset.

  • ​Reviewing financial records, communications, and transaction history.

  • Assessing whether the Crown can actually prove fraudulent intent, not just a financial dispute.

  • Negotiating resolutions, including restitution arrangements that may support a withdrawal or reduced charge.

  • Pursuing diversion or discharge for first-time or lower-severity allegations.

  • Representing you in court for this charge when it proceeds summarily.

If you’re facing a Fraud Under $5,000 charge, contact Vertex Legal Solutions PC to discuss how we can help protect your record and your reputation.

Need Legal Help? Let's Talk →

Vertex Legal Solutions is licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. General information, not legal advice.

bottom of page