Section 810 Peace Bonds in Domestic Cases: What They Are and Why They Matter

Urgent Notice

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

If you need abuse-related support:

• Assaulted Women’s Helpline (Ontario): 1-866-863-0511, TTY 1-866-863-7868, available 24/7 in over 200 languages
• National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.): call 800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit thehotline.org

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you are considering a peace bond in a domestic case, speak to a criminal defence lawyer before agreeing to any resolution.

In some domestic cases, the criminal file does not end with either a trial or a guilty plea. A peace bond may provide a third route.

That can be very important because a peace bond is not the same thing as a criminal conviction for the original charge.

What a Peace Bond Is

A peace bond is a court order under section 810 of the Criminal Code requiring a person to keep the peace, be of good behaviour, and obey specific conditions for a set period.

In many domestic cases, it is used as a negotiated resolution.

What It Is Not

A peace bond is not:

• a guilty plea
• a finding of guilt on the original domestic charge
• a criminal conviction for that original offence

That is why it is often discussed as a meaningful non-conviction outcome.

Why Peace Bonds Matter So Much

For many accused people, a peace bond matters because it may help avoid the consequences that can flow from a conviction, such as:

• a criminal record for the original domestic offence
• licensing and employment problems
• in some cases, more serious immigration fallout than a non-conviction resolution

That does not mean a peace bond is minor. It is still a court order with real consequences.

How Peace Bonds Usually Arise

In domestic cases, they are often negotiated between:

• the Crown, and
• the defence lawyer

If accepted, the original charge is typically stayed or otherwise resolved without a conviction on that charge.

Common Domestic Peace Bond Conditions

Conditions often include:

• keeping the peace and being of good behaviour
• no contact with the complainant
• no attendance at certain places
• no weapons
• counseling or programming requirements in some cases

The exact terms matter. The person entering the peace bond must understand each one clearly.

Duration

Peace bonds often last for a defined period, commonly up to 12 months, though the exact duration depends on the order made.

What Happens if It Is Breached

This is the part people must not underestimate.

Breaching a peace bond can lead to:

• a new criminal charge
• arrest
• a much worse position for the accused

So while a peace bond may avoid a conviction on the original charge, it still demands strict compliance.

When a Peace Bond May Be Considered

Whether a peace bond is available depends on the case.

Relevant factors often include:

• the accused’s record
• the seriousness of the incident
• the strength of the evidence
• the complainant’s position
• the Crown’s view of the public interest

Not every case is appropriate for this type of resolution.

Peace Bonds and Immigration Concerns

For non-citizens, the difference between a conviction and a peace bond can be extremely important, but it should never be assumed that the immigration analysis is simple.

If immigration status is at stake, read our guide on domestic violence charges and immigration status in Canada and get immigration advice before agreeing to anything.

Peace Bond vs. Restraining Order

People often confuse peace bonds and restraining orders, but they come from different legal systems and serve somewhat different purposes.

For that comparison, see restraining orders vs. peace bonds in Ontario.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Peace bond resolutions depend on the facts of the case, the Crown’s position, and the accused’s legal strategy.