i.
What the charge means
Mischief under s.430 covers wilful destruction, damage, rendering useless, or obstruction of the lawful use of property. Mischief under $5,000 is the most common variant.
Criminal Code s.430
Mischief charges in Ontario.
Damage to or interference with property — graffiti, vandalism, obstruction. Available defences turn on intent, ownership, and proportionality.
- Charge
- Criminal Code s.430
- Jurisdiction
- All of Ontario
- Consultation
- Free & Confidential
ii.
Penalties
Summary mischief under $5,000: up to 2 years less a day. Indictable forms carry significantly higher penalties depending on the value and target of the property.
iii.
Available defences
- Colour of right
- Accidental damage (no intent)
- Consent of the owner
- Charter — search and seizure
iv.
The process
Disclosure review, restitution discussions, Crown resolution, peace bond, or trial.
Charged with mischief?
Defence starts with a conversation.
Twenty minutes, confidential, no obligation. We’ll discuss your charge, the realistic outcomes, and the cost of defence before you commit to anything.