Charges
The client faced obtain property by deception in the amount of $6,000 and theft. Both are indictable offences with 10-year maximum penalties.
The Problem
Indictable dishonesty charges nearly always result in a conviction. Serious dishonesty charges can lead to community correction orders and imprisonment. In this case, any conviction would have had consequences for our client’s employment, travel and licensing.
Our Approach
Despite the unlikely hood of success, our team prepared a detailed application for diversion, which addressed the eligibility requirements and offered to restitute the victims in full.
Outcome
Diversion was granted. The diversion plan required $6,000 restitution to the victim and a $200 court fund donation. On completion, no criminal record was recorded.
Why This Case Matters
Had the client not approached our office for legal advice, they would not have known that they were eligible for a diversion. Diversion can resolve eligible indictable matters without a finding of guilt. Eligibility, victim position, and the structure of the diversion plan are central to whether diversion remains in range.