You don’t need to have stolen anything to be charged. Simply having something police believe is stolen—whether or not you knew—can land you in serious legal trouble.
Possession of stolen property charges are often misunderstood. You may have bought an item secondhand, borrowed it from someone else, or had no idea it was connected to a crime. Still, the law focuses on one key question: did you know, or should you have known, the item was stolen? These cases turn on circumstantial evidence and assumptions. We dig into the facts, challenge the Crown’s narrative, and look for opportunities to show that your possession was innocent or explainable. Whether you're facing a standalone charge or one linked to a broader theft case, we help protect your record and credibility.
Popular questions
What is possession of stolen property under Canadian law?
It means knowingly having something in your possession that was obtained through crime—whether or not you were the one who originally stole it.
Can I be charged even if I didn’t know the item was stolen?
Yes, but only if the Crown can prove you knew or were willfully blind to the fact. This is often where the case turns—and where legal strategy matters most.
What if I bought something online or secondhand?
Buying goods from private sellers (like Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace) doesn’t automatically make you guilty. But if the circumstances seemed suspicious, the Crown may argue you “should have known.”
What are the penalties for a conviction?
Penalties range from fines and probation to jail, depending on the value of the property and your criminal history. Even a minor conviction can impact jobs, travel, or education.
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Our team will answer your questions and talk you through potential next steps.