Calgary Criminal Lawyer David Chow

What is a Peace Bond?

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what is a peace bond?

A common type of non-criminal record resolution used in domestic violence court for domestic violence charges in Calgary and elsewhere is Peace Bond. 

What is a Peace Bond?

Under section 810 of the Criminal Code or by operation of the common law the Crown can agree to withdraw criminal charges in exchange for a Peace Bond.  A peace bond is essentially an agreement that you will keep the peace and be of good behaviour for a period (usually 12-18 months) and that you will complete any terms of the peace bond within that time.  Conditions or terms of a peace bond usually include a requirement to complete counselling, abide by no contact provisions, abstain from the consumption of alcohol and/or drugs and not to possess weapons.  Peace Bonds also require that you agree to pay cash if you breach a condition of the bond. 

 In exchange for the peace bond, the Crown will withdraw the criminal charges.

A peace bond is a very favourable resolution because it permits you to avoid  the risk of conviction and the consequences of a criminal record.  That said, peace bonds require compliance with conditions.  This can be difficult over time.  It is also worth noting that breaching a condition of the peace bond can result in criminal charges. 

who has jurisdiction to impose a peace bond?

Only the Crown can offer and agree to a peace bond.  The judge has no jurisdiction to impose a peace bond in exchange for the withdrawal of charges.  A judge only has the jurisdiction to determine whether the appropriate legal requirements have been met once the application has been presented.

In Calgary, specialized Crown's in domestic violence court have the power to agree to Peace Bonds. Peace Bonds are an effective alternative to sanctioning an accused without saddling him or her with a criminal record.

a calgary domestic violence lawyer

David Chow is a Calgary domestic violence lawyer who often saves his clients legal fees and a criminal record by negotiating the withdrawal of charges in exchange for alternate resolutions such as alternative measures and peace bond.

Domestic Assault  |  Common Assault  |  Sexual Assault  |  Homicide  |  All Crimes of Violence....

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