Legal Question in Criminal Law in Canada

Theft under $5000

Ok i live in toronto and me and my friend just a made a mistake by doing shoplifting or aka ''theft under $5000'' at the local zellers. im 16 years old and this if my first offence. i have a court date on feb.28 with my friend too and i have yet to hire a lawyer. im so young i dunt want my life ruined so what should i do what should i expect. Also is hiring a lawyer mandatory? i am unable to offord one and also not eligible for legal aid.

Can me and my freind have only 1 lawyer? cause we both got charged at the same time.


Asked on 11/15/07, 3:15 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kenneth Golish Golish, Kenneth W.

Re: Theft under $5000

I would suggest you attend and speak with the "duty counsel" on your first court date.

It is probable the prosecution will offer what is known as "extra judicial sanctions," which will take the charge out of the court system. You will be required to do an alternative punishment, for instance, write an essay or view a video. I am guessing that the practice in Toronto, ON is not much different than in Windsor, ON, where I am. You must admit responsibility in a signed document.

You will find out through the duty counsel what the prosecutor wants. If it is to enter a plea in court, you may be eligible to have a lawyer appointed. Duty counsel will explain.

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Answered on 11/15/07, 5:11 pm


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