Return to Stephen R. Biss home page Assault Assault in Canada encompasses any intentional application of force to another person, including a gesture. Sometimes consent is also a defence. Assault causing bodily harm and assault with a weapon are much more serious. If you are charged with a minor assault your lawyer may wish to explore the possibility of a common law or s. 810 peace bond . A peace bond does not result in a criminal record of a finding of guilt or conviction unless you breach the peace bond.
Domestic violence is totally unacceptable in Canada.
A man who has allegedly assaulted his spouse can expect to be arrested, held overnight in jail, and brought to court the following working day in custody for a bail hearing . The spouse who is the alleged victim should also immediately obtain counsel. Photographs of injuries may also be helpful. There is a difference in Canada between a finding of guilt and a conviction. Once a person is found guilty of some offences the Court must decide whether or not it will enter a conviction.