Fraud Lawyer in Vancouver
Expert Criminal Defence for Fraud Charges
Contact Us
Our team is here to help. Start today, with a free consultation. Or call us on: 604-547-9000
Trusted defence for fraud charges in Vancouver and across British Columbia
Being investigated or charged with fraud is serious. A conviction can lead to prison time, heavy fines, restitution orders, and long-term damage to your career and reputation. At Cote and Evans, our Vancouver fraud lawyers provide experienced, strategic criminal defence for individuals facing all types of fraud allegations.
Whether the allegation involves a single transaction or a complex financial investigation, we work quickly to protect your rights and build a strong defence from the very beginning.
Speak with a Vancouver fraud lawyer today. Confidential consultations are available with our experienced team.Â
Experienced Fraud Defence Lawyers in Vancouver
Fraud cases are often document-heavy, technical, and aggressively prosecuted. Police and Crown counsel typically spend months or years building fraud files before charges are laid. It is essential that you reach out to a fraud lawyer as soon as possible.
Our criminal defence lawyers have extensive experience handling fraud cases in Vancouver Provincial Court, the Supreme Court of British Columbia, and throughout the Lower Mainland. We understand how financial investigations are conducted and where weaknesses often exist.
We represent clients at every stage, including:
- – During police investigations
- – After arrest or charge approval
- – Through pre-trial negotiations
- – At trial and sentencing hearings
What Is Fraud Under Canadian Law?
Fraud is a criminal offence under section 380 of the Criminal Code of Canada. In simple terms, fraud involves dishonesty combined with deprivation, or the risk of deprivation, of money, property, or valuable security.
To secure a conviction, the Crown must prove:
- A dishonest act, such as deceit, falsehood, or other fraudulent means
- That the act caused actual or potential financial loss
- That the accused intended to deceive
Fraud charges can be laid even if no money ultimately changed hands. Allegations often rely heavily on financial records, digital evidence, emails, and witness testimony.
Types of Fraud Charges We Defend
Our Vancouver fraud lawyers defend clients against a wide range of fraud allegations, including:
Fraud Under $5,000
Typically treated as a summary offence, but still capable of resulting in criminal records, fines, probation, and jail time.
Fraud Over $5,000
An indictable offence that carries significantly higher penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
Identity Fraud and Identity Theft
Allegations involving misuse of personal information, forged identification, or impersonation.
Credit Card and Banking Fraud
Including unauthorized transactions, chargebacks, account manipulation, and false banking information.
Investment and Securities Fraud
Cases involving misrepresentation, breach of trust, or alleged deception in financial or business investments.
Insurance Fraud
Claims involving false statements, staged losses, or exaggerated damage.
Mortgage and Loan Fraud
Including alleged misrepresentation on mortgage applications or financial disclosures.
Corporate and Employee Fraud
Internal fraud allegations involving employers, partners, or corporate entities.
Penalties for Fraud in British Columbia
The consequences of a fraud conviction can be severe and long-lasting. Depending on the nature and value of the alleged fraud, penalties may include:
- Jail or prison sentences
- Substantial fines
- Restitution orders
- Probation conditions
- A permanent criminal record
- Professional or licensing consequences
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Because sentencing in fraud cases is highly fact-specific, having an experienced fraud defence lawyer in Vancouver is essential.
Our Surrey Criminal Law Team
Phil Cote
Partner
SHREYA BOSE
ASSOCIATE
ELIZABETH DUKE
ASSOCIATE
JESSICA MORNEAU
ASSOCIATE
PAUL SEKHON
ASSOCIATE
ANGELA BARNA
ASSOCIATE
BANEET HANS
ASSOCIATE
JESSICA WOZNIAK
ASSOCIATE
HEATHER MIDDLEMASS
ASSOCIATE
Why Choose Cote and Evans as Your Vancouver Fraud Lawyer?
Proven experience defending fraud charges in Vancouver
Direct, honest legal advice at every stage
A strong understanding of financial and white-collar crime law
Strategic advocacy both in and out of court
FAQ's
Yes. Speaking to police without legal advice can seriously harm your case. Early involvement from a fraud lawyer can prevent charges or shape the outcome.
Fraud involves deception or dishonest conduct, while theft typically involves taking property without consent. Many cases involve overlapping allegations.
Yes. Charges may be withdrawn due to insufficient evidence, Charter violations, or successful negotiations with the Crown.
Fraud cases often take longer than other criminal matters due to the volume of evidence. Some cases resolve quickly; others may take years.
In many professions, yes. Fraud convictions can impact licensing, employment, and future opportunities.