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 Guelph, Ontario.
Damage to or interference with property — graffiti, vandalism, obstruction. Available defences turn on intent, ownership, and proportionality.
- Courthouse
- Guelph Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
- Court Phone
- (519) 826-4431
- 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.
v.
Notes for Guelph
Guelph and Wellington County criminal matters are heard at the Guelph Courthouse on Wyndham Street South. Provincial offences from Guelph Police, OPP Wellington County and municipal enforcement are heard at the Guelph Provincial Offences Court on Carden Street.
Criminal Court
Guelph Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
36 Wyndham Street South, Guelph, ON N1E 4M6
(519) 826-4431
Guelph and Wellington County criminal matters. The Woolwich Street courthouse handles civil, family and small claims, not criminal.
Charged with mischief?
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