White-collar crime is a financially motivated, nonviolent offenses committed in the workplace. Common examples of white-collar crimes include fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, bribery, money laundering, and cybercrime.
In Ontario, the Criminal Code and other laws provide a range of possible defences to white collar crimes. Some of the most commonly used defences include:
Lack of intent: People can defend themselves against white-collar crime charges by claiming they did not intend to commit the crime.
Duress: Forced to commit a crime under threat of violence or harm.
Mistake of fact: A person may make an honest mistake and not realize it is illegal.
Entrapment: This defence may be used when a law enforcement officer or agent induces a person to commit a crime that they otherwise would not have committed.
Statute of limitations: Some white-collar crimes have a statute of limitations, meaning that prosecution must be started within a specified time period after the crime was committed.
Each case is unique and defences may be available depending on the facts and circumstances. Defences may be available depending on the facts and circumstances.
Contact Kisel Law to schedule a free 30-minute consultation to get immediate assistance.